Holtec International submits license application for proposed interim nuclear fuel storage facility

Holtec International announced last week that it submitted a site-specific license application with the
Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for its proposed interim storage site for used nuclear fuel in southeastern New Mexico.

The proposed underground facility would be capable of holding 10,000 canisters on 288 acres using
Holtec’s HI-STORM UMAX technology, which consists of welded canisters set in a retrievable
underground structure.

“Technically feasible options for managing used fuel have existed for decades, and as the world leader in nuclear technology, America should not wait any longer before pursuing them,” Maria Korsnick, president and chief executive officer at the Nuclear Energy Institute, said. “Holtec submitted a high-quality design
and license application. Conceptually, this site is similar to storage facilities currently operating at nuclear plants around the country. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission should review the application without delay.”

The Eddy-Lea Energy Alliance, an alliance of the cities of Carlsbad and Hobbs and the counties of Eddy and Lea in New Mexico, supports the project.

“The nuclear industry has long advocated for an integrated strategy for used nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste management,” Korsnick said. “The elements of this strategy include an interim consolidated storage facility for used nuclear fuel in a willing host community and state, and completion of the Yucca Mountain licensing process.”

Last month, the Trump Administration revealed a preliminary budget proposal that allocated $120 million for reopening of the Yucca Mountain licensing and advancing an interim storage solution.