EPA Supports Interim Storage Facility for Spent Nuclear Fuel

Strategic Insights -

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reviewed the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Interim Storage Partners LLC's License Application for a Consolidated Interim Storage Facility for Spent Nuclear Fuel in Andrews County, Texas. The review is provided pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Council on Environmental Quality regulations, and the EPA's NEPA review authority under Section 309 of the Clean Air Act. The EPA has found the draft EIS to be sufficient and has no comments to offer on the proposed action, allowing the project to move forward.

Key Takeaways:

  • The EPA has reviewed the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Interim Storage Partners LLC's License Application for a Consolidated Interim Storage Facility for Spent Nuclear Fuel in Andrews County, Texas.
  • The review is provided pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Council on Environmental Quality regulations, and the EPA's NEPA review authority under Section 309 of the Clean Air Act.
  • The EPA has found the draft EIS to be sufficient and has no comments to offer on the proposed action, clearing the path for the project to move forward.
  • The proposed facility plans to store spent nuclear fuel and Greater-Than-Class C waste along with a small quantity of spent mixed oxide fuel.
  • The EPA appreciates the opportunity to review the Draft EIS and is open to any further questions or discussions.

Statistics:

  • 85 FR 27447: The publication date of the Federal Register notice.
  • May 8, 2020: The date the EPA received the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
  • August 26, 2020: The date the EPA completed its review of the Draft EIS.
  • November 3, 2020: The deadline for comments on the proposed action.

Sources:

  • 85 FR 27447 - Federal Register notice: May 8, 2020
  • EPA - U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: "Public Comments on Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Interim Storage Partners LLC's License Application"
  • Council on Environmental Quality regulations (40 CFR Parts 1500 - 1508)
  • National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
  • Clean Air Act - Section 309