MidAmerican Energy has completed its nuclear feasibility study, which has been underway since 2010. The study resulted in several conclusions: (1) there are viable sites in Iowa that are potentially acceptable for a nuclear generation facility; (2) new small modular reactors can be a cost-effective alternative to other forms of generation when carbon emissions are constrained or taxed; and (3) new nuclear technologies will offer significantly enhanced safety capabilities. The study also concluded that it is premature, given the uncertainty of carbon regulation and the extensive regulatory review for new nuclear reactor designs, to immediately pursue any additional site work on a future generation option, including a nuclear facility.
Based on the assessment’s results, no land in Iowa will be purchased by MidAmerican Energy at this time to develop a nuclear generation facility. MidAmerican Energy’s land options in Fremont County will expire, and the company will not pursue an extension on its land options in Muscatine County. The two rural residences that MidAmerican Energy currently owns in Muscatine County will be put up for sale later this year.