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AUSTIN – Texas House Representative Stan Gerdes, a Smithville resident whose district covers Bastrop County, has been honored as Freshman of the Year by the newly established Texas Nuclear Caucus.
The award recognizes Gerdes’ outstanding contributions and dedication to advancing nuclear energy policies during his first year in office.
The fifth generation central Texan began his two-year term in November 2022, the nuclear organization formed in April of this year.
As a strong advocate for sustainable energy solutions, he has demonstrated exemplary leadership and commitment to promoting the development and utilization of nuclear power in Texas, according to representatives.
Through his unwavering support for the nuclear industry, he has emerged as a leading voice on nuclear energy-related issues, speakers said.
“His expertise and passion for promoting nuclear energy have been invaluable,” said caucus chairman and fellow State Rep. Ryan Guillen.
Governor Greg Abbott has since continued the conversation, discussing the importance and value of nuclear technology development with a “fireside chat” Aug. 16 at the University of Texas at Austin.
Abbott was joined by Dow Chair and CEO Jim Fitterling, one of the three largest chemical producers in the world, according to Chemical and Engineering News, and X-energy CEO Clay Sell, a nuclear reactor engineering company.
The team was moderated through talks of growth and development for the future of Texas power.
“Texas is the energy capitol of the world,” Abbott said, “but more important is what we are doing with that energy and what it means for our future. One thing we are looking at with a keen eye is the ability to expand our capabilities with regard to nuclear generated power.”
Gerdes has actively engaged with his fellow legislators to promote the expansion of nuclear power generation and research in Texas, according to the caucus. His efforts have focused on advancing policies that prioritize the development of safe and reliable nuclear energy solutions.
Prior to receiving this recognition and his time as representative, the Smithvillian spent several years as advisor to former Texas governor and U.S. secretary of energy Rick Perry. The duo focused on U.S. energy independence and traveled to over 25 countries promoting American energy solutions abroad.
The Texas Nuclear Caucus aims to position Texas as a leader in all aspects of the peaceful and productive uses of nuclear technology, according to representatives. Their objective is to promote and raise awareness about the power source’s advantages, such as safety, reliability and cleanliness, by means of legislative effort and education.
“While we are proud of our global leadership in oil and gas, wind and solar power, one sector is notably missing from Texas’ energy dominance, nuclear power,” said Guillen.
Gerdes’ recognition as Freshman of the Year serves as a testament to his dedication, leadership, and passion for advancing nuclear energy policies, according to the group.
