Utah state legislature passed HB 249, creating a new unelected state government entity, and taking almost $11 million of taxpayer money to fund nuclear reactors with their waste storage throughout the state.
On December 10, 2024, Enyo Energy proposed changes to Eagle Mountain's zoning laws to pave the way for building a Small Modular Nuclear Reactor (SMR) in our city. During the meeting, representatives were asked whether the energy produced would benefit Eagle Mountain residents. Enyo revealed that the reactor's output is intended primarily for their profit, doubtless to power data centers for their AI.
If you have concerns about this proposed change to our city code, you can find the dates and times for upcoming Eagle Mountain City Council meetings through this link.
Here’s why placing a Small Modular Nuclear Reactor (SMR) within city limits is a risky decision for Eagle Mountain:
Safety Concerns: Even with passive safety features, there’s still a risk of failure during extreme events like earthquakes, floods, or equipment malfunctions.
Proximity to Residents: SMRs located near populated areas could expose people to potential radiation risks in case of accidents or leaks.
Nuclear Waste: Storing and managing radioactive waste remains a long-term issue, with potential environmental and health risks.
Cost Uncertainty: While proponents claim SMRs are cheaper, there’s evidence suggesting they might not be cost-effective, especially when factoring in long-term maintenance and waste disposal.
Terrorism and Security Risks: Increased vulnerability to sabotage or terrorism due to reduced security measures and smaller exclusion zones.
Environmental Impact: Potential adverse effects on local ecosystems from radiation leaks or cooling water discharge.
Infrastructure Strain: Increased strain on local infrastructure, such as roads and emergency services, in case of accidents or disasters.
Long-Term Uncertainty: Lack of a proven track record for SMRs means long-term reliability and risks are still unknown.