NW Kentucky News

Paducah, Kentucky is ready to take a leap into the future of nuclear power and attract leading industries to the region. Congressman James Comer, representing Kentucky's 1st district, spoke at a Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Energy Policy, and Regulatory Affairs hearing, emphasizing the potential of Paducah in the development of advanced nuclear opportunities.

During his remarks, Congressman Comer mentioned that Dr. Kathryn Huff, Assistant Secretary in the Department of Energy's Office of Nuclear Energy, had recently visited the Paducah community and recognized the critical role it can play in the advancement of nuclear power capabilities in the United States. Congressman Comer expressed his commitment to supporting local officials and community leaders in their efforts to expedite the cleanup of the former Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant and plan for reindustrialization and economic development at the site.

One of the significant milestones in Paducah's journey towards reindustrialization is the DOE grant awarded to the Paducah Chamber of Commerce. This grant will be used to develop a reindustrialization roadmap for the assets and workforce at the site. Congressman Comer highlighted the united support from Ballard and McCracken Counties and the City of Paducah, as evidenced by resolutions passed in favor of reindustrialization efforts.

During the hearing, Congressman Comer asked Dr. Kathryn Huff for recommendations on resources and opportunities that could aid in the development of advanced nuclear opportunities in the region. Dr. Huff commended the leadership of the Paducah community and acknowledged the immense amount of resources in their workforce. She emphasized the importance of equitable transitions in the nuclear energy sector, ensuring that individuals with expertise in the nuclear space have the opportunity to secure new jobs in the future of nuclear. As the cleanup project comes to an end, those with nuclear expertise can contribute to various manufacturing activities and even the deployment of new nuclear reactors, making their skills valuable in the transition.

Congressman Comer also highlighted the interest of Global Laser Enrichment in partnering with the Paducah community to develop a commercial-scale facility. This facility would be responsible for the supply of uranium, conversion, low-enriched uranium, and high-assay low-enriched uranium. Such projects are crucial in turning legacy waste into fuel, creating high-paying jobs, and generating economic activity in Paducah, Kentucky.

Paducah is eager to clean up its former DOE nuclear plant and jump-start new economic opportunities. With the support of Congressman Comer and the acknowledgment of Dr. Kathryn Huff, Assistant Secretary in the Department of Energy's Office of Nuclear Energy, the region is poised to make significant progress in the development of advanced nuclear capabilities. The united efforts of local officials, community leaders, and industry partners will pave the way for a prosperous future in Paducah.