PSC Schedules Nuclear Energy Technical Conference May 12-13, 2026

COMMONWEALTH OF KENTUCKY BEFORE THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION In the Matter of:

O R D E R The Commission, on its own motion, hereby schedules a formal technical conference on May 12 and 13, 2026, to take place in person at the Kentucky Historical Society, 100 West Broadway St., Frankfort, Kentucky, to discuss issues related to nuclear energy, generation, storage, and related matters as part of the Commission's investigation. The formal technical conference will begin at 8:30 a.m. Daylight Savings Time and continue until 4:45 p.m., each day. The agenda is attached to this Order as an Appendix. IT IS THEREFORE ORDERED that:

1. An in-person formal technical conference shall be held on May 12 and 13,
   2026, to take place in person at the Kentucky Historical Society, 100 West Broadway St., Frankfort, Kentucky, to discuss issues related to nuclear energy, generation, storage, and related matters as part of the Commission's investigation.

2. The agenda for the May 12 and 13, 2026 formal technical conference is
   attached to this Order as the Appendix.

ELECTRONIC INVESTIGATION OF NUCLEAR ) CASE NO. ENERGY, GENERATION, STORAGE, AND ) 2025-00186 RELATED MATTERS )

Entered on this 24th day of April, 2026. PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION

___________________________ Angie Hatton Chair

___________________________ Mary Pat Regan Commissioner

___________________________ Andrew W. Wood Commissioner

ATTEST:

______________________ Linda C. Bridwell, PE Executive Director

Case No. 2025-00186

APPENDIX APPENDIX TO AN ORDER OF THE KENTUCKY PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION IN CASE NO. 2025-00186 DATED APR 24 2026

EIGHT PAGES TO FOLLOW

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⚛ Powering the Future in Kentucky: Innovations in Nuclear Generation Kentucky PSC Nuclear Conference 2026

May 12-13, 2026 Kentucky History Center Master of Ceremonies: John West

Day 1: Understanding the Role of Nuclear Energy in the Commonwealth

7:45 - 8:30 AM | Registration & Networking Breakfast 8:30 - 9:00 AM | Welcome & Opening Remarks

• Secretary Rebecca Goodman
  9:00 - 10:00 AM | The Role of Nuclear Energy in National Security

• Lew Anderson, Defense Innovation OnRamp Hub: Kentucky

• R.J. Dyrdek, Energy Program Manage, Fort Knox Directorate of Public Work

• Moderator: Moriah Tussey
  Nuclear energy is a cornerstone of national security, providing a resilient and reliable power source while maintaining a country's geopolitical leadership. This session will explore the critical link between a robust civil nuclear sector and national defense.

10:00 - 10:30 AM: Keynote: Governor Andy Beshear 10:30 - 11:30 AM | Forecasting Energy Policy Trends

• Brandi Frazier Bestpitch, Directory Reliability, Virginia Department of Energy
• Alyse Peterson, Senior Advisor, NYSERDA
• Chairman Doug Scott, Illinois Commerce Commission
• Moderator: Kenya Stump As global energy demand surges--driven by AI-powered data centers, heavy industrial electrification, and climate mandates--nuclear energy is re-emerging as a central pillar of international policy. This session will explore the shift in the policy landscape, moving from decades of stagnation to ambitious goals like tripling global nuclear capacity by 2050.

11:30 - 11:40 AM | Coffee Break & Networking 11:40 AM - 12:30 PM | New Nuclear in the States

• Greg Boerschig, VP of Engineering and QA for the Clinch River Project, TVA
• Kristy Hartman - NEI
• Myron Kaczmarsky, VP Holtec Government Services, Holtec International
• Natalia Saraeva, Engagement Lead, Office of Nuclear Energy, U.S. Department of

Energy

• Moderator: Sen. Carroll This session explores the rapid evolution of the domestic nuclear landscape as states transition from ambitious policy goals to steel-in-the-ground reality. Panelists will discuss the diverse strategies driving the next generation of deployment--from the revitalization of traditional fleets and coal-to-nuclear transitions to the integration of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) into local grids. Join us for a deep dive into how state leadership, regulatory frameworks, and community partnerships are carving the path for a reliable, carbon-free energy future.

12:30 - 1:30 PM | Lunch (On Your Own) 1:30 - 2:30 PM | Sustainability, Resiliency, and the Environment

• Julia Finch, Director, Kentucky Sierra Club
• Chad Eaton, NUCOR
• John Cornwell, Director of Policy and External Affairs, Good Energy Collective
• Moderator: John Lyons This session explores the pivotal role of nuclear energy in achieving a reliable, carbon- free future. Experts will discuss how modern reactor designs enhance grid resiliency while meeting the urgent demands of global sustainability goals. Attendees will gain insights into the latest innovations in waste management and the environmental benefits of integrating nuclear power with renewable sources. The discussion concludes with a strategic outlook on the policy frameworks necessary to scale nuclear infrastructure safely and efficiently.

2:30 - 3:30 PM | Nuclear Waste Management

• Melinda Higgins
• Nima Ashkeboussi, Global Laser Enrichment
• Katrina McMurrian, Executive Director, Nuclear Waste Strategy Coalition
• Ashley Wilmes, Kentucky Resources Council
• Moderator: Tony Hatton This session addresses the critical technical and regulatory hurdles associated with the long-term storage and disposal of radioactive materials. Industry experts will discuss the transition from interim surface storage to deep geological repositories, highlighting recent breakthroughs in containment stability. Participants will also explore innovative recycling technologies aimed at reducing waste volume and enhancing the sustainability of the nuclear fuel cycle.

3:30 - 3:45 PM | Coffee Break 3:45 - 4:45 PM | Regulatory Landscape for Advanced Nuclear

• Chris Fletcher, National Governors Association
• Betsy Smith, Senior Policy Specialist, National Conference of State Legislatures
• Judi Greenwald, President and CEO, Nuclear Innovation Alliance
• Moderator: Jurgens Van Zyl This session provides a comprehensive overview of the evolving regulatory framework governing the licensing and deployment of advanced nuclear reactors. Experts will analyze recent legislative shifts and policy updates designed to streamline the approval process while maintaining rigorous safety standards. Participants will explore the challenges of adapting traditional oversight to innovative designs like small modular reactors (SMRs) and microreactors. The discussion concludes with actionable insights into navigating the international compliance landscape to accelerate the global transition to clean energy.

Day 2: Advancements in Nuclear Technology and Safety

8:00 - 9:00 AM | Networking Breakfast 9:00 - 9:10 AM | Welcome

• Senator Danny Carroll
  9:10 - 10:10 AM | Safety, Security & Best Practices

• Christine King, GAIN, Idaho National Laboratory

• Greg Boerschig, Vice President, Clinch River Project, TVA

• Natalia Saraeva, Engagement Lead, Office of Nuclear Energy, U.S. Department
  of Energy

• Moderator: Commissioner Wood
  This session explores the critical framework sustaining the global nuclear industry: the integration of stringent safety protocols, advanced security measures, and operational best practices. As the sector evolves with new technologies and heightened global scrutiny, our panel of experts will discuss strategies for mitigating risk, protecting critical infrastructure, and fostering a robust safety culture. Join us to examine how international collaboration and regulatory excellence ensure that nuclear energy remains a reliable, secure, and sustainable pillar of the global energy transition.

10:10 - 11:00 AM | Fireside Chat: Licensing & Re-Powering

• Spencer Toohill. Chief of Staff for Nuclear Energy Innovation, The Breakthrough

Institute

• Moderator: Larry Taylor As the global demand for clean, reliable baseload power surges, the nuclear industry faces a critical turning point: how to accelerate deployment without compromising safety. This session explores the dual strategies of modernizing regulatory frameworks and revitalizing existing assets. We will discuss practical pathways for streamlining the licensing process for new builds, including SMRs and advanced reactors, while examining the technical and economic viability of re-powering retired plants. Join us to analyze how policy shifts, digital licensing tools, and life-extension strategies can collectively shorten the timeline from application to electrons on the grid.

11:00 - 11:15 AM | Coffee Break

11:15 AM - 12:15 PM | Nuclear Fusion Technology

• Ryan Crihfield, Tennessee Division of Radiological Health
• Ben Byboth, Commonwealth Fusion Systems
• Dr. Rodney Andrews, University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy

Research

• Moderator: Ashley Hatcher This panel will provide an overview of nuclear fusion technology and current advancements in fusion research and development. This panel will explore the differences between nuclear fusion and fission and the challenges and benefits associated with nuclear fusion. Finally, this panel will discuss the potential timelines for having a viable nuclear fusion power plant.

12:15 - 1:30 PM | Lunch (On Your Own) 1:30 - 2:40 PM | Community Engagement

• Mayor George Bray, Paducah
• Reed Adkins, Executive Director, SOAR
• Michelle Zietlow-Miller, Public Engagement Manager, GAIN, Idaho National

Laboratory

• Lane Boldman, KY Conservation Committee
• Sandra Wilson. Paducah Chamber of Commerce
• Moderator: Commissioner Mary Pat Regan As interest in nuclear energy grows as a reliable, carbon-free power source, meaningful engagement with communities has become essential. This panel will explore how utilities, regulators and industry leaders can build trust, communicate transparently about nuclear technologies, and involve local communities in the conversation. Panelists will discuss best practices for public outreach, addressing concerns about safety and waste, and ensuring communities understand both the benefits and responsibilities associated with nuclear energy development.

2:40 - 2:55 PM | Interview Session - Economic Development

• PSC Chair Angie Hatton interviews Secretary Jeff Noel, Kentucky Cabinet for

Economic Development

This session explores how investment in conventional and next-generation nuclear technology catalyzes regional economic activity, provides high-paying jobs with long- term stability, and offers significant tax revenue for local communities. Panelists will discuss the transformative potential of nuclear projects to anchor industrial growth-- including AI and manufacturing--while providing grid stability and facilitating a sustainable energy transition.

2:55 - 3:10 PM | Coffee Break 3:10 - 3:45 PM | Financing Nuclear Projects

• Allen Otto, Managing Director, Investment Banking, Guggenheim Securities, LLC

• Tom Hucker, Senior Advisor, Lead for State and Territorial Engagement, Office
  of Energy Dominance Financing (EDF), U.S. Department of Energy

• Moderator: John Horne
  As the world aims to triple nuclear capacity by 2050, the industry faces significant hurdles, including high upfront capital costs, long construction lead times, and sensitivity to fluctuating interest rates. This session brings together financial institutions, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss how to bridge the gap between current investment levels and the estimated $150 billion needed annually.

3:45 - 4:45 PM | Nuclear Construction: Opportunities & Challenges

• Secretary Jamie Link, Education and Labor Cabinet
• Anthony Holbrook, Director for Kentucky, Central Midwest Carpenter's Union
• William Wagner, Manager of Business Development for Nuclear Power, Bechtel

Corporation

• Reed Adkins, Executive Director, SOAR
• Bridget Back, Deputy Director, Eastern Kentucky Concentrated Employment

Program (EKCEP)

• Moderator: Jessica Norris-Canfield This session explores the dual reality of the modern nuclear landscape: the urgent push for decarbonization through large-scale deployment versus the persistent hurdles of project management, supply chain resilience, and regulatory hurdles. Experts will discuss strategies for shortening construction timelines, managing multi-billion dollar budgets, and the transition from traditional Gigawatt-scale reactors to Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

4:45 - 5:00 PM | Closing Remarks

• PSC Chair Angie Hatton

Service List for 2025-00186

• Allyson Honaker
• Angela M Goad Assistant Attorney General

Suite 20

• Ashley Wilmes Kentucky Resources Council, Inc. Post Office Box 1070 Frankfort, KY 40602
• Honorable Allyson K Sturgeon Vice President and Deputy General Counsel-Regulatory and PPL
• Audrey Ernstberger

Kentucky Resources Council, Inc. Post Office Box 1070 Frankfort, KY 40602

• Byron Gary Kentucky Resources Council, Inc. Post Office Box 1070 Frankfort, KY 40602
• Honorable David Edward Spenard Strobo Barkley PLLC 239 South 5th Street Ste 917
• Thomas J FitzGerald Counsel & Director Kentucky Resources Council, Inc. Post Office Box 1070 Frankfort, KY 40602
• Denotes served by Email
• Heather Temple
• Hector Garcia Kentucky Power Company 1645 Winchester Avenue Ashland, KY 41101
• Harlee P. Havens Stites & Harbison 250 West Main Street, Suite 2300 Lexington, KY 40507
• Louisville Climate Action Network P.O. Box 4594 Louisville, KY 40204
• John Horne

Suite 20

• Kentucky Power Company Kentucky Power Company 1645 Winchester Avenue Ashland, KY 41101
• Kenneth J Gish, Jr.

Stites & Harbison 250 West Main Street, Suite 2300 Lexington, KY 40507

• Katie M Glass Stites & Harbison 421 West Main Street P. O. Box 634 Frankfort, KY 40602-0634
• Duke Energy Kentucky, Inc.

Cincinnati, OH 45202

• Larisa Vaysman
• Lawrence W Cook Assistant Attorney General

Suite 20

• Meredith L. Cave
• Michael West

Suite 20

• Minna Sunderman
• Michael J. Schuler American Electric Power Service Corporation 1 Riverside Plaza, 29th Floor Post Office Box 16631 Columbus, OH 43216
• East Kentucky Power Cooperative, Inc East Kentucky Power Cooperative, Inc. 4775 Lexington Road P. O. Box 707 Winchester, KY 40392-0707
• Big Rivers Electric Corporation Big Rivers Electric Corporation 710 West 2nd Street P. O. Box 20015 Owensboro, KY 42304
• Rick E Lovekamp Manager - Regulatory Affairs
• Robert Conroy Vice President, State Regulation and Rates
• Randal A. Strobo Strobo Barkley PLLC 239 South 5th Street Ste 917
• Senthia Santana Big Rivers Electric Corporation 710 West 2nd Street P. O. Box 20015 Owensboro, KY 42304
• Sheena McGee Leach
• Kentucky Utilities Company Kentucky Utilities Company 220 W. Main Street P. O. Box 32010 Louisville, KY 40232-2010
• Louisville Gas and Electric Company Louisville Gas and Electric Company 820 West Broadway

Louisville, KY 40203

• Sara Judd Senior Corporate Attorney
• Toland Lacy Office of the Attorney General 700 Capital Avenue Frankfort, KY 40601
• Timothy Mayer Strobo Barkley PLLC 239 South 5th Street Ste 917
• Tyson Kamuf Corporate Attorney Big Rivers Electric Corporation 710 West 2nd Street P. O. Box 20015 Owensboro, KY 42304