The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has issued an exemption to Constellation Energy Generation, LLC, allowing the Nine Mile Point Nuclear Station to use the Holtec HI-STORM Flood/Wind Multi-Purpose Canister Storage System for six MPC-89 containers starting in May 2025. This exemption permits them to bypass certain requirements usually needed for the storage of nuclear waste because their analysis for handling tornado-generated missiles differs from the NRC-approved method. The NRC determined that granting this exemption will not pose a threat to life, property, or security and is in the public interest. The decision ensures efficient management of spent nuclear fuel while maintaining safety standards.
Simple Explanation
The NRC let a nuclear plant use a special storage box to keep used-up nuclear fuel starting in 2025, even though the plant didn't follow all the usual rules. They believe this will still be safe and help manage radioactive waste better.