PHOTO RELEASE: Ricketts Tours Cooper Nuclear Station, Reiterates Support for Nuclear Energy

August 22, 2023

BROWNVILLE, NE – Last week, U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), the Ranking Member of the Environment and Public Works Subcommittee on Clean Air, Climate, and Nuclear Safety, toured the Cooper Nuclear Station in Brownville, NE.

“To achieve lasting energy independence and security, America must be a leader in nuclear energy,” said Ricketts. “Cooper Nuclear generates clean, safe, and reliable electricity and provides important baseload to our electric grid. I will continue to advocate for this proven solution as a part of an all-of-the-above energy strategy.”

Cooper Nuclear Station operates as the largest, single-unit electrical generator in the state. It produces approximately 835 megawatts of electricity, enough to supply more than 385,000 residential customers during hot summers. Cooper Nuclear was able to continue to operate at 100% capacity during the floods of 2019 and provided significant, stable generation during the winter energy emergency of February 2021.

Ricketts has long been a strong proponent of nuclear energy. As Governor, he signed into law increased incentives for nuclear power expansion. He also hosted the Nebraska Advanced Nuclear Forum to explore the benefits of smaller, modular nuclear reactors. As Senator, he co-sponsors the ADVANCE Act, which will modernize current technology and facilitate America’s continued leadership in nuclear energy. In May, the ADVANCE Act passed out of committee on a bipartisan vote of 16-3.