Congressman Christian Menefee (D) is calling for greater federal investment in nuclear research, workforce development, and advanced reactor technology in Houston as the U.S. works to expand nuclear power capacity.
Menefee highlights Houston's Energy Role.
Rep. Menefee highlighted Houston's potential to play a larger role in the country's nuclear energy industry during a House Science, Space, and Technology Subcommittee on Energy hearing on advanced nuclear reactors.
"Houston is the energy capital of the world," said Rep. Menefee. "When this committee says 'nuclear renaissance,' my district hears a job, a career, and an opportunity to research and power what comes next."
Menefee noted that nuclear power currently represents less than 10% of Texas electricity generation and argued that the state can build on its existing energy workforce and infrastructure as electricity demand increases.
Houston universities could expand nuclear research.
During the hearing, Menefee called for more federal research funding for Houston institutions, including Texas Southern University and the University of Houston.
He highlighted the University of Houston's participation in the Texas Nuclear Alliance and research through its Energy Transition Institute, Advanced Manufacturing Institute, and Texas Center for Superconductivity.
"I want the next generation of researchers, scientists, and engineers to come right here from Houston," said Menefee.
He also emphasized workforce opportunities, including pathways for workers with technical certifications to enter the growing nuclear industry.
Focus on Jobs and Community Safety
Menefee said expanding nuclear energy should include attention to the communities surrounding nuclear facilities, emphasizing jobs, economic growth, and health and safety.
"We can create good-paying jobs, grow our economy, lead the future of energy, and make the health and safety of our communities a priority every step of the way," he added.
