Rep. Stephanie Barnard’s bill takes a hard look at how Washington will power a clean energy future without driving up costs or risking reliability
CONTACT: Jennifer Hansen, Senior Public Information Officer | 360-786-7720
Rep. Stephanie Barnard’s bill takes a hard look at how Washington will power a clean energy future without driving up costs or risking reliability
As Washington moves toward ambitious clean energy targets, electricity demand is rising faster than ever, driven by population growth, electrification, and energy-intensive industries such as data centers. Without careful planning, that demand could lead to higher energy costs for families and employers, increased strain on the power grid, and escalating conflicts over land use.
To address those challenges, Rep. Stephanie Barnard, R-Pasco, has introduced House Bill 2090, legislation that ensures Washington takes a serious, data-driven look at how advanced nuclear energy could help meet clean energy goals while protecting affordability and reliability.
“I’ve spent a lot of time studying advanced nuclear technology because I believe it can play a critical role in our clean energy future,” said Barnard. “As electricity demand continues to rise, we cannot afford to ignore reliable, carbon-free power sources that operate around the clock. My bill is about making sure Washington’s energy strategy reflects real-world needs, not wishful thinking.”
HB 2090 directs the Washington State Department of Commerce to develop a nuclear power strategic framework – at no cost to taxpayers – to evaluate whether and how advanced nuclear energy could complement wind and solar by providing always reliable, carbon-free power. The framework would be developed only if non-state funding is secured and would be incorporated into the state’s next update of its energy strategy.
While wind and solar remain important parts of Washington’s energy mix, they are intermittent by nature. Advanced nuclear energy can provide firm, always-on electricity that strengthens grid reliability during peak winter and summer demand, prolonged low-wind conditions, or reduced sunlight. Because nuclear power produces large amounts of clean energy from a smaller footprint, it can also reduce the need for extensive new transmission lines and the massive land-use conflicts that come with the thousands of acres needed for utility-scale solar and wind installations.
“This bill reflects one of my top priorities: making sure our clean energy transition doesn’t come at the expense of reliability or affordability,” Barnard added. “My bill doesn’t mandate nuclear power or authorize construction. It ensures the state is doing its homework and honestly evaluating whether advanced nuclear can help deliver clean energy when people actually need it.”
Under the bill, the Department of Commerce would examine costs, reliability, siting and permitting considerations, workforce needs, regulatory pathways, and opportunities for public input. The framework would also assess how advanced nuclear technologies could help replace remaining fossil-fuel electricity generation while reducing systemwide costs and supporting long-term economic growth.
“Nuclear energy is an area I care deeply about because it offers a rare combination of clean power, reliability, and efficiency,” Barnard concluded. “If Washington is serious about its climate goals, we need the courage to look at solutions that work, not just the ones that are politically comfortable.”
HB 2090 received a public hearing in the House Environment and Energy Committee and remains under consideration. Barnard said she hopes to move the bill forward as part of a responsible, balanced approach that safeguards affordability, reliability, and environmental stewardship.
