- Governor Spencer Cox proposes a $24.2 million budget to double Utah’s energy production by 2034, focusing on nuclear and geothermal energy.
- The plan includes $20 million for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and $4.2 million for geothermal energy development.
- Cox’s strategy contrasts with federal solar energy priorities, aiming for more reliable, locally tailored energy solutions for Utah.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox proposed a $24.2 million budget to double the state’s energy production in the next 10 years. The plan focuses on nuclear and geothermal energy, diverging from federal priorities emphasising solar energy.
The proposal allocates $20 million to prepare sites for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and $4.2 million for geothermal energy development. These measures form part of Cox’s “Operation Gigawatt” plan, which aims to increase the state’s energy output by 2034 significantly.
The funding would help prepare locations for installing advanced nuclear reactors, which the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission currently reviews. SMRs provide a key technology for enhancing energy security and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. They also offer safer, more adaptable alternatives to traditional nuclear plants.
Geothermal energy plays another key role in Cox’s plan. In 2023, geothermal energy accounted for 8% of Utah’s renewable electricity, while solar energy contributed 11%. Despite this, coal and natural gas still dominate Utah’s energy mix. Cox aims to boost energy reliability by investing in geothermal energy and contributing to a cleaner future.
Cox’s vision contrasts with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), which focuses on expanding solar energy projects across 31 million acres of public lands in the western United States. Cox expressed concerns over solar energy’s long-term viability, arguing that nuclear and geothermal sources provide more reliable, locally tailored solutions for Utah.
Governor Cox’s stance mirrors that of Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo. Lombardo also objected to BLM’s solar initiatives, arguing that such projects could harm local communities and protected ecosystems. These differences highlight tensions between state-level energy strategies and federal policies.
Although Utah lacks operational nuclear power plants, the state plays a vital role in the nuclear sector. Utah hosts the only active uranium ore processing plant in the U.S. Recently, two uranium mines in eastern Utah resumed operations after over a decade of inactivity. This development highlights Utah’s strategic importance in the nuclear energy supply chain.
Cox’s proposed budget and energy plan aim to position Utah as a leader in the transition to cleaner energy. The state’s strategy seeks to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. Utah plans to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels by investing in nuclear and geothermal energy while creating a more secure and reliable energy future.
The legislature still needs to approve the proposal. If lawmakers pass the plan, the state’s energy landscape could shift significantly. Cox’s plan could also serve as a model for other states facing similar challenges in diversifying their energy sources and meeting sustainability goals.
Cox’s approach could position Utah as a key player in the energy transition. With advanced nuclear technology and renewable geothermal resources, the state aims to achieve energy security while protecting the environment for future generations. The outcome of the legislative process will determine whether this ambitious vision becomes a reality.