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The Energy, Climate and Grid Security Subcommittee approved a legislative package that enhances the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s capability to license new reactors.

On Tuesday afternoon, the full E&C Committee voted 47-2 to report the matter.

She expressed her desire for their bill to be expedited and aid in the implementation of a new initiative, known as the “Net Zero Nuclear Initiative,” which commits to tripling the world’s nuclear capacity by 2050, as agreed upon at COP28.

DeGette stated that nuclear energy accounts for nearly 50% of the carbon-free electricity generated in the U.S. and is a key component of our clean energy arsenal. However, she also warned that it is not a perfect solution to the climate crisis and emphasized the importance of significantly reducing our reliance on fossil fuels.

‘Low-hanging fruit’

DeGette also addressed the recent EPA regulation that places greater responsibility on individual companies to regulate methane emissions, a powerful contributor to climate change. She discussed how the oil and gas industry is recognizing its role in aiding the U.S. in maintaining its reputation as a leading country in reducing methane emissions.

Representative Scott Peters (D-Calif.) stated that we should come to a consensus on methane. He also mentioned that the industry has claimed to be taking action to decrease methane emissions, and this is not solely due to President Joe Biden’s “rush to green” plan. Rather, it is due to the demands of customers.

According to Peters, the oil and gas industry is actively working towards creating innovative methods for monitoring and reducing methane emissions. This goes against the beliefs of some of his Republican colleagues who claim such efforts are unnecessary. Peters views this as an easy and obvious solution to the problem.

In response to the release of the methane rule, McMorris Rodgers released a statement expressing doubts about its effectiveness and potential limitations. She stated that the rule “could” potentially lead to a significant increase in the EPA’s regulatory control, which could hinder innovation, raise operating expenses, and drive up energy costs.

Anne Bradbury, the chief executive officer of the American Exploration and Production Council, strongly criticized the recently implemented regulation during her prepared statement. She believes that it will discourage the use of various technological advancements and methods in favor of older, less effective ones for controlling methane emissions. This could potentially hinder progress and innovation in the development of new methane detection and maintenance technologies.

When asked about the potential impact of the new rule on her industry, Bradbury’s response was somewhat more subtle.

According to the speaker, American oil and gas companies are taking the lead in decreasing methane emissions. The industry has expressed their willingness to comply with practical and fair regulations on methane. The final rule, which spans 1,600 pages, was released over the weekend and is currently being reviewed.

Reporting was contributed by Nico Portuondo.