The NC Energy Policy Council recently approved its 2024 Biennial Report, containing recommendations for the state’s leaders, policymakers, and regulators. The report includes over three dozen suggestions, such as grid improvements and expanding renewable energy sources like offshore wind to meet emissions reduction targets.
One of the most debated recommendations in the report was the call for increased offshore wind projects. While some argued for the economic and environmental benefits, others, like Chris Millis from the Homebuilders Association, raised concerns about the cost and reliability of offshore wind energy, emphasizing the burden it could place on ratepayers.
After a contentious debate, the Council revised the language of the offshore wind recommendation to soften its stance, ultimately approving it with a 9-1 vote. The report also includes recommendations to advance North Carolina’s nuclear capacity, particularly through Small Modular Reactors, aiming to centralize nuclear power in the state.
While some experts support the move towards renewables like offshore wind, others, like Jon Sanders from the John Locke Foundation, advocate for more reliable energy sources, such as small modular nuclear reactors. Additionally, big tech companies like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon have shown interest in advanced nuclear options to power their data centers.
The 2024 Report is currently open for public comment until Nov. 11, with the Council set to discuss and vote on final recommendations at their Nov. 20 meeting. The report will then be submitted to state leadership for consideration.
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