The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) held two public meetings recently for USA fleet member PSEG Nuclear’s early site permit (ESP). The meetings solicited feedback on the NRC’s draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) for the ESP which concluded there are no environmental impacts that would preclude PSEG Nuclear from building an additional nuclear plant north of its existing Hope Creek Generation Station in the future.

More than 30 stakeholders came out to support PSEG Nuclear and its ESP application including: the Salem County Board of Chosen Freeholders, Lower Alloways Creek Township, the Center for Aquatic Studies, the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce, Salem Community College, Rowan University, Rutgers University, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 94 leadership and PSEG employees belonging to the North American Young Generation in Nuclear (NAYGN) and Women in Nuclear (WIN) employee resource groups. Only the Delaware Riverkeeper voiced opposition to the ESP and a potential new nuclear plant.

“Supporters spoke frequently about our role as a good neighbor and community supporter,” said PSEG Nuclear President and CNO Tom Joyce. “More importantly, they recognized our employees who volunteer their time and serve as leaders in the community.”

The DEIS is based on information supplied in PSEG Nuclear’s ESP application as well as feedback provided at two public meetings held in November 2010. In addition, the NRC continues to work closely with PSEG’s nuclear development team, which has provided additional background and information as requested. The NRC’s review of the ESP application has also included meetings and tours with the local community.

The final environmental impact statement is scheduled to be issued in September 2015 with a final decision on the ESP application expected in the fourth quarter 2015. An NRC decision to issue an ESP means that the site PSEG has identified north of Hope Creek is suitable for a new nuclear plant from a safety, environmental and emergency planning perspective.

An ESP is valid for 20 years and allows PSEG to continue exploring the possibility of building a new plant without making a formal commitment to build. PSEG would need to submit and receive approval for a Combined Operating License (COL) in order to actually construct and operate a new plant.

PSEG Nuclear’s Jamie Mallon discusses the potential of a new nuclear plant with local college students who attended the NRC public meetings.