Certificates of need authorization for certain small modular reactors

This bill amends Minnesota law to allow the Public Utilities Commission to issue certificates of need for new small modular nuclear reactors with a maximum capacity of 300 megawatts. It directly affects developers seeking to build these smaller-scale nuclear facilities by creating an exception to the existing prohibition on new nuclear plant construction. The key provision modifies statute 216B.243 to permit certificates for reactors under 300 MW, while maintaining restrictions on larger plants. This changes the regulatory pathway for small nuclear projects without altering broader energy policies.