County Commissioners Attend Energy Summit In Idaho

Roosevelt County Commissioner Gordon Oelkers and Daniels County Commissioner Tammi Fladager were among the attendees at a recent energy summit at the Idaho National Laboratory. Commissioners from Montana, Wyoming and Idaho had the opportunity to see first-hand some of the remarkable advancements taking place in nuclear energy technology.

Idaho National Laboratory has achieved three significant advanced nuclear reactor criticality milestones in recent years, helping lead the momentum toward a new era of nuclear energy in the United States.

Commissioners toured facilities where cutting-edge nuclear research, technology and engineering are taking place. They visited the fuel materials and fuel complex where researchers are developing advanced nuclear fuels designed to operate more safely and efficiently than previous generations.

Commissioners also learned about the development of small modular and microreactors, some of which are remarkably compact compared to traditional nuclear power plants. These technologies have the potential to change how and where nuclear power can be used. Another important part of the summit focused on used nuclear fuel treatment and disposition, along with the laboratory’s work in cybersecurity. The laboratory is helping protect critical infrastructure including water systems, sewer systems, natural gas facilities and other essential services from potential cyber threats.

One of the most exciting applications of these new nuclear technologies is their potential to produce reliable, independent energy to the national defense facilities. They could also supply power to major industrial users to help reduce pressure on the already strained electrical grid. Officials said that advancements in nuclear technology during the past five years have exceeded much of the progress made during the previous 30 years. That speaks volumes about the momentum building in the industry. For Montana and its neighboring states, these developments are especially important as we look toward meeting growing energy demands, supporting economic development, strengthening national security and maintaining a reliable energy supply.

“It is an exciting time for American nuclear energy. The innovation taking place today has the potential to create a safer, stronger and more energy-independent future for our country,” Oelkers said. “I appreciated the opportunity to join fellow commissioners from across the region, learn from scientists and engineers at the Idaho National Laboratory, and see first-hand the technologies that could help America’s energy future.”