For Immediate Release: June 23, 2021

Contact: Mark Brueggenjohann  202-728-6014

 IBEW: Nuclear Power PTCs Support Climate and Jobs

IBEW International President Lonnie R. Stephenson issued the following statement in response to the introduction of the Zero-Emission Nuclear Power Production Credit Act:

“For a long time, production tax credits have supported wind, solar and other forms of renewable energy to jump-start these industries and help lead our nation in the fight against climate change.

“That’s why I’m so pleased with Rep. Bill Pascrell’s Zero-Emission Nuclear Power Production Credit Act. This legislation would support expanding these credits to the largest source of clean energy in our economy: nuclear. More than 50% of carbon-free energy production comes from our existing fleet of nuclear reactors. The simple reality is that we cannot meet our commitment to cut carbon emissions without nuclear being part of our energy mix.

“This announcement comes at a critical time for the nuclear power industry as it faces tough economic pressures that threaten to close many existing nuclear reactors. These closures would not just be bad for the climate, but bad for the economy as well.

“The IBEW represents approximately 15,000 nuclear workers across the country, so I know that nuclear jobs aren’t just any jobs. They are some of the best jobs in the entire energy industry. According to the U.S. Energy and Employment Report, the hourly national median wage is just $19. In nuclear it’s nearly $40. In fact, it’s the highest paid energy sector in the nation. Simply put, nuclear jobs are some of the best hourly jobs this country has to offer.

“Combating climate change and investing in good jobs should be our nation’s top policy priorities, and Congress’ support for nuclear power PTCs will go a long way in advancing those goals.” 

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The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) represents approximately 775,000 members and retirees who work in a wide variety of fields, including construction, utilities, manufacturing, telecommunications, broadcasting, railroads and government.