LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Residents across Kentucky are being asked to weigh in on one question: should nuclear power become part of its energy future?
At a recent public meeting hosted by the Kentucky Public Service Commission (PSC), community members gathered to share their opinions on nuclear energy — an issue gaining attention as energy demand continues to rise.
Kentucky has never had a nuclear power plant, but that could change. The PSC is holding meetings across the state to gather public input as it studies the possibility.
Supporters point to safety and efficiency
Among those speaking in favor was Will McAlister, a student at the University of Louisville’s Speed School of Engineering.
"The truth is, nuclear is far safer than Kentucky’s current main energy sources," McAlister said.
He added that his interest in nuclear energy has grown over time, citing its potential advantages.
"I think it’s cleaner, safer and cheaper than many of the alternatives," McAlister said. "I think it’s just a no-brainer choice going forward—not just for Kentucky, but America."
Critics raise concerns about cost and timeline
Not everyone agreed with McAlister. Sarah Cunningham, a licensed professional engineer representing the Climate Action Network, presented a 25-page report outlining concerns.
"I will note the top three reasons we as a climate network don’t want nuclear power," Cunningham said. "It costs way too much. It takes too long."
She warned that long development timelines could undermine efforts to address climate change.
"The last thing we need is to tell everybody, 'Don’t worry about the climate—we got this,' and then take 18 or 19 years to do anything," she said. "That’s too late."
PSC studying issue under legislative directive
At the center of the discussion is the Public Service Commission, led by Chair Angie Hatton, a former state representative.
Hatton said the commission was directed by Senate Joint Resolution 140, passed by the Kentucky General Assembly, to study nuclear energy.
"The Public Service Commission is supposed to find out all we can about it—learn about the regulation, the cost, the environmental concerns—and then educate the public," Hatton said.
Kentucky previously halted nuclear development in the 1980s under a statewide moratorium. That restriction was lifted in 2017, reopening the door for future projects.
Hatton noted that advances in technology could make nuclear more viable today.
"There’s new technology that has evolved to take up a much smaller footprint and be less expensive," she said.
Growing demand driving conversation
As energy needs increase — driven in part by expanding data infrastructure and population growth — the conversation around nuclear power is likely to continue.
For now, state leaders said they are focused on listening.
The PSC will continue holding public meetings as it gathers input and studies whether nuclear power could play a role in Kentucky’s energy future.
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