Pending legislation would allow small modular nuclear reactors in Illinois. – Daily Herald*

Legislation awaiting the governor's signature would lift Illinois' nuclear ban beginning in 2026 -- but only for reactors that have an output of 300 megawatts or less. With not a single such small reactor in operation or production anywhere in the country, the technology is still in its early stages, but legislators say the state needs to prepare now to stay ahead of the game. The new generation of nuclear power, many argue, could cut costs, produce less waste and provide more flexibility when it comes to siting and cooling.