The bill starts by presenting a series of pressing “Findings.” It outlines that the Russian Federation’s total invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, has cascaded into global energy security concerns. The invasion has notably jeopardized Ukraine’s energy grid—a critical backbone for its defense and governance. A salient point here is that Ukraine heavily relies on nuclear power, operating four plants with 15 reactors, mostly Russian-designed.
The invasion has seen Russia targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, including the illegal occupation of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Station, Europe’s largest nuclear plant. The bill indicates that Russia’s aggressive posture extends beyond warfare, spreading malign influence through its nuclear power plant designs and fuel services across Europe.
So, what is Congress’s take on this? The “Sense of Congress” underlines two key points. First, the U.S. Department of State should prioritize American products and services for countries developing nuclear power, followed by those from Europe and allied nations. Second, there’s a pronounced need for cooperative efforts among the U.S., Europe, and other allies to expand the nuclear industry while keeping nonproliferation and security at the forefront.
The bill proceeds to mandate that the Secretary of State, consulting with the Secretary of Energy and other relevant agencies, develop a comprehensive strategy. This strategy will aim to enhance U.S.-European nuclear energy cooperation and counter Russian influence in the sector.
The strategy entails several critical elements: – A review of efforts to increase the U.S. nuclear industry’s presence in Europe, making U.S., European, and allied technologies more competitive against Russian and Chinese alternatives. – An assessment of the potential and challenges of various European nuclear reactor types, including large light-water reactors and small modular reactors. – An analysis of current and potential nuclear fuel cycles, emphasizing reducing Russian market share and maintaining high safety standards. – Insights into the United States’ ongoing development of nuclear reactor designs and fuel cycles. – A review of U.S. diplomatic engagements regarding nuclear energy in Europe. Additionally, the bill requires an evaluation of European countries’ nuclear policies, current cooperation with the U.S., European allies, and adversarial countries like Russia and China. It highlights the need for a detailed understanding of Russian and Chinese influence in Europe’s nuclear sector and the effectiveness of U.S. efforts to counteract this influence.
A significant section of the strategy involves balancing the collaborative need to counter Russian influence with commercial competitiveness issues, ensuring that U.S. companies and those from allies remain viable. A specific focus is laid on assessing Rosatom, Russia’s state nuclear energy corporation, to understand its strengths and potential vulnerabilities.
Reflecting the magnitude of this initiative, the bill authorizes an appropriation of $30 million per fiscal year from 2025 to 2029. This fund will support essential activities such as capacity building for nuclear programs, early-stage project support in Europe, and countering Russian disinformation campaigns.
In terms of legislative procedure, the next steps for this bill involve further scrutiny and potential approval by relevant committees, both in the House of Representatives and the Senate. If it passes these hurdles, it will eventually require the signature of the President to be enacted into law.
This bill is more than a technical mandate; it’s a reflective response to a complex geopolitical puzzle. If enacted, it could redefine energy security and diplomatic relations across the Atlantic, aiming to create a more independent and robust European nuclear sector free from malign external influences. It’s a legislative move delineating energy as not just an economic factor but a pivotal element of modern strategic defense and international alliances.