Debates over who pays for new nuclear plants put ratepayers in the middle

[Marlin]

Debates over who pays for new nuclear plants put ratepayers in the middle

https://www.marketplace.org/story/2026/06/15/who-pays-for-new-nuclear-plants#debates-over-who-pays-for-new-nuclear-plants-put-ratepayers-in-the-middle

[Core Content]

Source: marketplace.org.

Missouri lawmakers are debating the implementation of construction-work-in-progress financing, which allows utilities to charge customers for nuclear plants during the construction phase. Proponents argue the policy reduces long-term interest costs, while opponents contend it places an unfair financial burden on ratepayers. The outcome of these legislative discussions will influence the feasibility of future nuclear projects and the financial risk models used by utility companies.

Missouri is among several states reviving a financing policy that allows utilities to charge ratepayers for power plants as they're being built rather than after they come online.

Increasing electricity prices have caught the attention of customers and lawmakers alike. Even as energy prices are rising, so is demand. Some are now advocating for a reinvestment in nuclear energy as a long-term, carbon-free source of power.

But in Missouri, the cost of building new nuclear plants has set off a debate about who pays for them. Many Missouri Republicans, including state Sen. Mike Moon, would like to see more nuclear power plants built.

Read the full article at marketplace.org:
https://www.marketplace.org/story/2026/06/15/who-pays-for-new-nuclear-plants#debates-over-who-pays-for-new-nuclear-plants-put-ratepayers-in-the-middle