The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has granted Constellation Energy Generation, LLC, an exemption for their Nine Mile Point Nuclear Station's spent fuel storage system. This exemption allows Constellation to maintain and load multi-purpose canisters (MPCs) with certain design features that do not meet all current safety specifications, as outlined in the existing Certificate of Compliance. However, the NRC has determined that these deviations will not endanger public safety and are consistent with federal laws, while also being in the public interest as they avoid unnecessary risks related to unloading already stored fuel. This decision also helps Constellation manage their storage capacity effectively, ensuring the safe operation of their reactors.
Simple Explanation
The government is letting a company store some of its special boxes for used nuclear stuff in a way that usually isn't allowed, because this way is still safe, and it helps the company take care of the space they need.