Section 1

Plant Hatch

 

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As a candidate for U.S. Congress representing Georgia's 1st District, Matt Day is committed to making Plant Hatch a model of energy security, economic growth, and long-term job creation in South Georgia. Located in Appling County, the Edwin I. Hatch Nuclear Plant is one of Georgia's most vital energy assets. Matt Day has a detailed plan to ensure its continued success and expansion for decades to come.

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1. Secure Hatch’s License Renewal Through 2058

Matt will champion the ongoing application with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to extend Hatch's operating licenses for Units 1 and 2 through 2054 and 2058 respectively. He will:

• Submit a formal letter of support to the NRC.

• Host public hearings and field visits to highlight Hatch’s safety and strategic importance.

• Press NRC for an efficient review under the latest federal nuclear license guidelines.

Impact: Secures Hatch’s operation for 30 more years, preserving high-wage jobs and stable electricity production for Georgia.

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2. Expand Federal Funding for Plant Upgrades

Matt will work to secure federal appropriations through the Department of Energy (DOE) and the ADVANCE Act to fund plant modernization. This includes:

• Digital control systems upgrades

• Cybersecurity defenses

• Cooling and turbine system enhancements

• Power uprates to increase capacity by 30–60 MW

Impact: Increases efficiency and safety, keeping Hatch competitive and cost-effective.

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3. Launch the Hatch Workforce Pipeline Initiative

To prepare the next generation of nuclear workers, Matt will create the "Hatch Nuclear Career Pathway Act." This initiative will:

• Partner with Coastal Pines Technical College and Georgia Southern University

• Launch new apprenticeship programs in nuclear operations, welding, grid systems, and radiation safety

• Provide federal grant funding and transportation assistance for rural students

Impact: Creates stable career opportunities and keeps skilled labor local.

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4. Designate Appling County as an Energy Opportunity Zone

Matt will introduce legislation to designate Appling County as an Energy Opportunity Zone. This would:

• Offer federal tax credits to energy suppliers and contractors who build near Hatch

• Attract private investment in energy storage, electric equipment manufacturing, and clean industry

Impact: Stimulates regional growth and turns Baxley into a clean energy business hub.

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5. Integrate Hatch Into Savannah Port Expansion​

Matt's vision includes connecting Hatch’s power output to major infrastructure upgrades at the Port of Savannah. This includes:

• Electrification of cranes, cold storage, and freight corridors

• New transmission infrastructure from Hatch to port facilities

• Designation of a "Savannah-Baxley Clean Energy Corridor"

Impact: Expands Hatch’s economic reach and makes it a regional economic engine.

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6. Build Public Trust and Education Around Nuclear Energy

To maintain long-term support, Matt will:

• Establish a Nuclear Education and Transparency Center in Baxley or Jesup

• Hold annual public forums about Hatch’s safety, science, and role in Georgia’s economy

• Engage schools and workforce boards in education campaigns

Impact: Improves public understanding and support of nuclear energy.

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7. Defend Hatch Against Overregulation

Matt will ensure Plant Hatch is protected from excessive and costly federal mandates. He will:

• Serve on the House Energy & Commerce Committee

• Monitor EPA and NRC rules that may threaten affordable operation

• Advocate for balanced oversight that prioritizes energy security

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Impact: Keeps operational costs low while meeting all safety standards.

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Conclusion

Matt Day is committed to securing Plant Hatch’s future. Through strategic federal funding, workforce development, infrastructure integration, and strong leadership in Washington, Hatch can remain one of Georgia’s greatest assets—creating jobs, powering homes, and anchoring the region’s energy future well beyond 2050.