DOE Seeks Public Comment on Idaho Commercial SNF Shipments

The Department of Energy started a public comment period late last week to gather public input on the proposed shipments of commercial spent nuclear fuel to the Idaho National Laboratory for research purposes. Controversy surrounding the shipments erupted earlier this year when word of a compromise between the Idaho governor and DOE emerged that would enable spent fuel to enter state.The public comment period is asking whether an additional National Environmental Policy Act analysis is needed to move forward with shipments. “A determination concerning the need for any further NEPA analysis will follow the public comment period,” DOE said in a release. “No decision has been made at this time regarding the destination of the proposed spent nuclear fuel shipments; that decision will be made following completion of this NEPA process.” The 30-day comment period will conclude on July 13.