By Washington State Sen. Matt Boehnke,

In this part of Washingtons, we don’t just talk about innovation – we embody it.

For generations, Richland, Kennewick, Pasco, and the surrounding communities have stood at the epicenter of American scientific progress. Our region played a vital role in winning World War II, ending the cold war, and continues to spearhead clean-energy research and support for national security through institutions like the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and Energy Northwest.

Now, as our state and the nation take steps toward a carbon-free energy future, nuclear power must be central to that vision – and the Tri-Cities is ready to lead once again.

As a local lawmaker, I see firsthand the talent, infrastructure, and community support already in place for nuclear energy. Our region isn’t debating whether nuclear power should be part of the future – we’re actively building it. Energy Northwest is collaborating with national and regional partners to deploon Stary small modular reactors (SMRs), an advanced technology that heralds the next generation of clean, safe, and reliable nuclear power. These new reactors are more compact, cost-effective, and scalable, making them a practical complement to wind, solar, and hydropower.

Yet, in Olympia, nuclear energy is often left out of the conversation. That is a costly oversight. The 2019 Clean Energy Transformation Act sets Washington on a path to 100% clean electricity by 2045. Achieving that goal without nuclear is not only unrealistic – it’s irresponsible. As we retire fossil-fuel plants and face increasing demand from electric vehicles, data centers, and population growth, we will need firm, always-available energy sources to keep the lights on and the economy moving. That’s where nuclear comes in.

Opponents often rely on outdated fears or misinformation. However, modern nuclear technology is safe, well-regulated, and backed by a strong bipartisan coalition at the national level. Recently, the federal government has boosted its support through significant investments in research, permitting reforms, and tax incentives. Congress and the Trump administration acknowledge that we cannot achieve national climate targets without a substantial role for nuclear energy.

Our state should match that urgency. This means updating siting laws to support advanced nuclear technologies, investing in education and workforce development, and ensuring that nuclear energy is treated fairly in clean-energy programs and procurement. Additionally, it includes listening to communities like ours that are already prepared and eager to lead.

The benefits are clear: high-wage jobs, local investment, and energy security. The Tri-Cities has long had one of the highest concentrations of nuclear-science expertise in the country. By supporting nuclear, we’re not only responding to a changing climate – we’re also investing in our communities and ensuring a stable energy future for generations to come.

There’s no time to wait. California’s recent blackouts serve as a warning of what can occur when states rely too heavily on intermittent power sources without dependable backups. If Washington wants to avoid the same fate, we must embrace a balanced energy portfolio that includes renewable sources, hydropower, and nuclear energy working in unison.

Nuclear power is a cornerstone of the future, and the Tri-Cities are ready to lead the way. As Republican leader on the Senate’s energy committee, I will continue to work to ensure our region has a seat at the table and that state policies reflect the reality on the ground. It’s time for Washington to fully embrace nuclear power – not just in words, but in action.

Let’s empower our clean energy future, starting right here at home.

– I am the ranking Republican on the Senate Environment, Energy, and Technology Committee. I am serving myfirst term in the state Senate, representing the 8th Legislative District after two terms in the Washington State House of Representatives.