Governor Greg Abbott today announced the appointment of Jarred Shaffer as Director of the newly created Texas Advanced Nuclear Office (TANO). Established by House Bill 14, TANO will play a pivotal role in advancing nuclear energy development in Texas and will oversee the administration of the $350 million Texas Advanced Nuclear Development Fund, designed to incentivize private investment and innovation in nuclear technologies.
“Texas continues to build the world’s most robust and diverse energy sector,” said Governor Abbott. “TANO and the Texas Advanced Nuclear Development Fund will increase Texas’ investment in an all-of-the-above energy approach to solidify Texas as the world’s energy hub. Jarred Shaffer’s expertise in nuclear energy makes him the best fit to streamline the nuclear regulatory environment and direct investments to spur a flourishing and competitive nuclear power industry in the Lone Star State. Texas will lead the nuclear renaissance.”
Shaffer, a native of Flower Mound, brings a wealth of public policy and energy experience to the role. He has served as a Budget and Policy Advisor in the Office of the Governor, committee director for the Texas House Committee on State Affairs under Representative Chris Paddie, and a senior policy analyst for Texas Senator Brian Birdwell. His professional background also includes service with the Texas Department of Transportation and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. Shaffer is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin with a degree in International Relations and Global Studies/Government, along with minors in Spanish and Latin American Studies.
Judd Messer, Texas Vice President of the Advanced Power Alliance, praised the appointment, saying, ““During his time as a legislative staffer and in the governor’s office, Jared consistently championed sensible energy policy solutions that lowered costs, strengthened reliability, and let the free market do what it does best. I’m confident he’ll bring that same steady, pragmatic leadership to his new role as director of the Texas Advanced Nuclear Office.”
With TANO’s creation and leadership now in place, Texas is positioning itself at the forefront of the nuclear energy renaissance, complementing the state’s leadership in wind, solar, natural gas, and emerging clean technologies. The establishment of TANO underscores Texas’ commitment to an all-of-the-above energy strategy that strengthens grid reliability, drives innovation, and ensures Texas remains the world’s premier energy hub.