COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Nuclear Development Authority (ONDA) has been formed to push the development of advanced nuclear reactors, commercial isotope production, and nuclear waste management technologies. This new nine-member board, appointed by the governor, has been granted an initial funding of $750,000.
The Ohio House voted on March 23, 2022, to create the ONDA with the controversial goal of designing and constructing new nuclear power plants funded by taxpayers. This initiative faced significant opposition, as the Ohio Senate had previously cut the provisions, failing to pass in three earlier sessions. Nevertheless, these provisions were reintroduced and pushed through by lawmakers, raising concerns about political maneuvering and corporate influence. State Representative Dick Stein (R-Norwalk) said at the time, “This brings Ohio to the forefront of advanced nuclear innovation and strengthen our domestic supply chains.”
Governor Mike DeWine recently appointed several members to the ONDA, including Alicia Walls from Waverly, Pike County. Walls, an engineer at BWX Technologies, began her term on August 2, 2024, which will continue until August 1, 2029. BWX Technologies, based in Virginia, specializes in nuclear operations and technologies and is among the contractors at the former Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant site.
Critics argue that the board’s mission to expand Ohio’s nuclear capabilities prioritizes corporate profits over public safety and environmental health. Many citizens are worried about the lack of transparency, fearing that the presence of industry insiders on the board will lead to biased decisions favoring nuclear energy interests over the welfare of the public and the environment.
The formation of the ONDA highlights the urgent need for vigilant oversight and genuine public engagement to ensure that Ohio’s energy policies serve the best interests of all its residents, rather than just a powerful few.