The Yucca Mountain nuclear waste site could have a “small” environmental impact on groundwater over a million-year timeframe, nuclear regulators predicted. In a 300-page analysis of the proposed nuclear waste repository, staff from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) said the Department of Energy (DOE) did not properly account for radioactive contamination of groundwater and the impact if that groundwater reaches the surface. The DOE’s study was completed in 2008 as part of the congressionally mandated and since stalled preparation for Yucca. The Obama administration cut off most preparation for Yucca in 2010 in response to opposition in Nevada and elsewhere. But congressional Republicans hope to provide funding for Yucca at some point, and the NRC is still obligated to conduct its analysis of the application that President George W. Bush’s administration submitted.
The Hill 6th May 2016 read more »
World Nuclear News 6th May 2016 read more »