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Finally Friday!
March 20, 2026
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The America First Energy Project here to bring you our perspective and matters we know are important for the community, decision makers, and economy of a strong, energy-independent state.
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Are Small Modular Nuclear Reactors on a Fast Track in Louisiana?
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Louisiana is taking meaningful steps to position itself at the forefront of the next generation of energy production, as the administration of Governor Jeff Landry prepares to roll out a comprehensive framework for nuclear energy development. Driven by rapidly increasing power demand tied to major industrial growth, state leaders are aligning economic development strategy with the need for reliable, scalable energy. As noted by Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Susan Bourgeois, the state is embracing a “power-first economy,” recognizing that long-term competitiveness depends on the ability to deliver consistent, high-capacity power to support manufacturing, LNG expansion, and emerging sectors like artificial intelligence data centers.
This forward-looking approach reflects a broader commitment to an “All of the Above” energy strategy, one that values reliability, affordability, and innovation across all generation sources, including renewables, natural gas, and now advanced nuclear. The state’s recent efforts, including a multi-agency working group and collaboration with partners such as Idaho National Laboratory, demonstrate a coordinated push to evaluate not only nuclear generation but also the full supply chain and workforce implications. With modern technological advancements addressing many historical concerns, nuclear energy is increasingly recognized as a safe, clean, and dependable component of a balanced energy portfolio capable of meeting Louisiana’s growing needs.
Importantly, policymakers have already begun laying the groundwork to turn strategy into action. The Louisiana Legislature is to be commended for advancing measures in the 2025 session that streamline permitting for small modular reactors and other advanced nuclear technologies critical steps toward reducing barriers and accelerating deployment. Together with Governor Landry’s leadership, these actions signal that Louisiana is serious about competing in the evolving energy landscape. By embracing advanced nuclear alongside traditional and renewable resources, the state is not only strengthening its energy security but also reinforcing its position as a national leader in comprehensive, forward-thinking energy and economic policy.
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From the Road
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America First Energy Project Louisiana Executive Director Jeff Arnold was in St. Charles Parish at the Parish Council Meeting, in Baton Rouge for the Public Service Commission and Louisiana Legislature, and St. Helena Parish to meet with parish officials including the longest serving member in the history of the Louisiana Legislature, State Representative Francis Thompson.
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In the past couple weeks, the AFE team was in St. Tammany, St. Charles, St. Helena, and East Baton Rouge.
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Where To Next
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We’ll be in back in Caddo, St. Tammany, and St. Helena.
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Oil and gas prices are soaring. Some countries are ready with solar panels and EVs
– WYSO
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A widening Middle East conflict and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz are driving fresh energy market disruptions, but the article argues that countries with more solar, batteries, and electric vehicles are better positioned to absorb the shock. Pakistan, China, and Nepal are cited as examples where renewable energy growth and electrification are reducing exposure to volatile fossil fuel imports.
The broader takeaway is that renewables are increasingly being viewed through an energy security lens as much as a climate one. As oil and gas prices rise, countries with local solar and storage capacity have more protection from global supply shocks and greater long-term price stability.
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