Activists oppose nuclear incentive bill

Indiana

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INDIANAPOLIS — A bill that would offer Indiana's utilities incentives to build the state's first nuclear power plants is advancing in the Statehouse despite strong opposition from environmentalists, renewable energy boosters and industries that consume large amounts of electricity.

Supporters argue the wide-ranging bill is needed to help the state meet its future energy needs. But opponents say it would give utilities subsidies to design and construct multibillion-dollar nuclear power plants without compelling them to control those projects' costs.

Opponents also warn it would end up boosting the cost of electricity by shifting the risk of building power plants from utility companies to customers.

The bill is scheduled for a vote Monday in the Republican-ruled Indiana Senate. It would move to the GOP-controlled House for consideration if it passes.