The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has granted an exemption to PSEG Nuclear LLC for using Optimized ZIRLOâ„¢ fuel rod cladding at the Salem Nuclear Generating Station units in New Jersey. This exemption allows the use of a different material for the fuel rods, aimed at improving performance, and was requested by PSEG in July 2024. The NRC confirmed that the exemption complies with legal standards, doesn't pose any additional health or safety risks, and will not impact site security. With this approval, PSEG can proceed with license amendments to implement the new cladding material.
Simple Explanation
The U.S. government gave a special permission to a power company in New Jersey to use a new type of shiny metal for its power-making tubes in their nuclear plant, which helps them work better without making everything less safe.