Rep. Stephanie Barnard champions nuclear energy confidence with safety-driven advisory commission
CONTACT: Jennifer Hansen, Senior Public Information Officer | 360-786-7720
Rep. Stephanie Barnard champions nuclear energy confidence with safety-driven advisory commission
As Washington state’s energy demands grow, driven by population increases and the rapid adoption of electric vehicles, Rep. Stephanie Barnard, R-Pasco, has introduced House Bill 1249 to establish the Commercial Liftoff for Energy from the Advanced Nuclear Advisory Commission. The proposed commission aims to build public confidence in nuclear energy by providing accurate, trusted information about its safety and reliability, ensuring Washingtonians have confidence in the additional electricity generation needed to meet the state’s clean energy goals.
“This commission is not just about leadership, it’s about building trust,” said Barnard. “Washingtonians need confidence in the safety and reliability of nuclear technology. This legislation ensures we have the expertise, collaboration, and public engagement necessary to meet our energy challenges head-on.”
The advisory commission will consist of 13 members representing academia, industry, government, and tribal organizations. In addition to developing policy recommendations, planning for new facilities, and creating a skilled workforce, the commission will actively engage with the public through forums and outreach programs to ensure transparency and awareness.
“Energy security is fundamental,” Barnard added. “We are forecast to be short of energy by 2030. Without abundant, safe, clean, reliable nuclear energy, there is no credible path to a carbon-free or thriving economy. We need leadership in place immediately to bring real energy security to Washington.”
According to a Bisconti Research report commissioned by Energy Northwest, 82% of Washingtonians believe nuclear energy is important for meeting the state’s future electricity needs. Growing public support underscores the importance of establishing a trusted source of information on nuclear energy.
The proposed commission will adhere to a clear reporting schedule. Its first recommendations would be due on October 1, 2026, with biennial updates to follow. These reports will outline detailed roadmaps with timelines and targets to support the siting and construction of additional nuclear facilities in Washington.
Nuclear energy could also play a critical role in supporting Washington’s expanding technology sector, including the growth of data centers. These facilities are essential to powering cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and other advanced technologies that drive the modern economy. Data centers are highly energy-intensive, requiring uninterrupted, reliable power to operate efficiently.
“Nuclear energy provides the consistent, low-carbon power supply that data centers need,” said Barnard. “As we build the clean energy future, we must ensure that industries critical to our state’s economic growth, such as technology and data centers, have access to secure and sustainable energy sources.”
Washington state is home to numerous data centers essential to supporting local and global digital infrastructure. Nuclear energy’s ability to provide scalable, around-the-clock electricity positions it as a cornerstone for meeting the increasing energy demands of this important industry.
“The clean energy transition is about more than reducing emissions. It’s about reliability and affordability for families and businesses,” Barnard said. “Nuclear energy’s low carbon footprint and consistent power make it essential for meeting our growing electricity demands and our state’s 2045 clean energy goals. House Bill 1249 ensures strong leadership, transparency, and public trust in this effort.”
The 105-day 2025 legislative session began on Monday, Jan. 13, and is scheduled to adjourn on April 27.
