The US state of Iowa is well-positioned to be a leader in the growing nuclear industry, given its history of deploying new energy technologies, strong manufacturing base, workforce capabilities and leadership in the sector, including the planned restart of the Duane Arnold nuclear power station, a report has concluded.

The report, by the Iowa Nuclear Energy Task Force, which was established by Iowa’s governor in January to evaluate opportunities for advancing nuclear energy technologies and infrastructure in Iowa, put forward a number of recommendations as Iowa considers a role for nuclear in its energy mix.

It called for a statewide nuclear feasibility study that screens areas for new nuclear development. It also proposed that the state creates a single point of contact to facilitate nuclear energy development.

Iowa should consider state-wide nuclear industry incentives to support companies in the industry and pursue incentives and policy changes at state level that drive nuclear reactor investments, the report said.