MADISON, Wis. (WFRV) – A new bipartisan law passed by Governor Tony Evers is launching a major study into the future of nuclear energy in Wisconsin as the state works to meet a growing demand for carbon-free electricity.
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The initiative announced during the 2026 State of the State address establishes a partnership between the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin and the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The study will explore new opportunities to expand nuclear energy and evaluate how it could meet Wisconsin’s long-term clean energy goals.
The funding for the project comes from the 2025-27 State Budget, which allocated $2 million to support the nuclear power study. The research project has a deadline to be concluded by the end of the 2026 calendar year.
State leaders say the study will provide a detailed evaluation of where nuclear energy projects could be developed and the potential impact on surrounding communities. The researchers plan to examine traditional nuclear plants, small modular reactors and advanced technologies, including nuclear fusion.
The study also plans to review regulatory requirements, permitting challenges, and economic impacts. Experts from national laboratories, including Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, will contribute to the project’s needs.
Point Beach Nuclear Plant in Two Rivers is Wisconsin’s only functioning nuclear facility. However, growing interest in nuclear energy nationwide – driven by increasing demand for electricity and the push for low-carbon energy sources – has prompted the state to reconsider expansion.
In addition to the study, state lawmakers created a Nuclear Power Summit Board in 2025 to assist in advancing nuclear and fusion technologies in Wisconsin.
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“Wisconsin is at the forefront of nuclear innovation due in large part to our important work that’s happening on our UW campuses, including at UW Madison, and its great to see the next step in this important and innovative partnership move forward,” Evers said.
State officials expect the study to provide a foundation for future decisions on whether new nuclear projects will be built in Wisconsin.
