2LT International News

WASHINGTON, D.C.: U.S. senators from both parties introduced a bill this week aimed at countering China and Russia’s growing influence in the global nuclear energy sector.

The U.S. has the largest nuclear power capacity of any country, but China is rapidly expanding its reactor fleet at home, and Russia is striking deals with countries in Southeast Asia and other regions.

The Trump administration has considered issuing new orders to take more control over approving nuclear reactor projects, which an independent agency currently manages. These orders might also examine the recycling of nuclear waste, but many experts worry that this could spread dangerous materials.

Both Democrats and Republicans support nuclear power because it produces relatively little carbon and can create good jobs. Senators Jim Risch and Mike Lee (Republicans) and Martin Heinrich and Chris Coons (Democrats) are working on the bill.

However, building new reactors takes a long time, is expensive, and generates radioactive waste.

The new law, known as the International Nuclear Energy Act, would help by establishing an office to promote nuclear exports, increase funding, and harmonize regulations across countries. It would also set up a fund to support critical national security projects.

The bill would require a meeting every two years for top government officials to discuss safety, security, and collaboration between government and industry.

Senator Risch said, “If the U.S. doesn’t lead on nuclear energy development, Russia and China will.” He said nuclear power gives the U.S. “tools we need to compete with these authoritarian aggressors.”

“Achieving American energy dominance will require us to streamline our nuclear exports, foster our relationships abroad, and bring the full weight of American industry to bear in out-competing our geopolitical adversaries,” Lee said.