Idaho and Trump Administration sign agreement to support U.S. nuclear energy future
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(IDAHO FALLS, Idaho) ~ Idaho Falls, Idaho - In a collaborative effort between the State of Idaho, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and the Idaho National Laboratory (INL), a targeted waiver of the 1995 Settlement Agreement has been agreed upon. This agreement will allow for critical research on a high burnup nuclear fuel cask from a commercial nuclear power plant, providing data to support licensing for extended storage of spent fuel at 54 nuclear power plants in 28 states.

Governor Brad Little expressed his pride in supporting innovation in nuclear energy while upholding the goals of the 1995 Settlement Agreement. He stated, "The collaborative effort between the State of Idaho, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the Idaho National Laboratory showcases our commitment to advancing nuclear energy research while upholding the goals of the 1995 Settlement Agreement. We are proud to support innovation in nuclear energy that will support national security and energy independence into the future."

U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright also emphasized the importance of this agreement in maintaining American competitiveness and advancing nuclear technology. "Idaho National Laboratory is DOE's lead lab for nuclear energy research and development, and it is critical that we continue to grow this research capacity and maintain American competitiveness," he said.

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INL Director John Wagner expressed gratitude for being entrusted with such an important mission and highlighted their role as "the nation's center for nuclear energy research and development." He added, "We look forward to utilizing our unique facilities and expertise to support this critical national need."

Attorney General Raul Labrador also praised this agreement for protecting Idaho's interests while supporting important research that will strengthen America's energy security. He stated, "We're grateful for the Trump Administration's work with Idaho to honor the 1995 Settlement Agreement and advance innovation safely and responsibly."

DOE-Idaho Operations Manager Robert Boston acknowledged INL's role as "the nation's premier nuclear energy research, development and demonstration laboratory" and commended the state of Idaho for their foresight in allowing INL to continue expanding its legacy.

The waiver will enable INL to address a national need that was not envisioned when the Settlement Agreement was established three decades ago. This research will help sustain the current U.S. nuclear reactor fleet, which produces nearly 20% of the nation's electricity, and reinforces Idaho's critical role in supporting the U.S. nuclear industry.

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Furthermore, this waiver also supports research reactors at American universities, which play an essential role in educating the next generation of nuclear scientists and engineers while enabling vital nuclear research. Without this waiver, some universities risk having to shut down their research reactors due to regulatory limits on spent fuel storage.

The modern commercial nuclear fuels are more efficient, resulting in lower costs for utilities and their customers. However, to ensure continued safe storage, data is required to confirm the performance of nuclear fuel during long-term storage. These data are crucial for over 70% of today's dry storage facilities, allowing them to renew their licenses and continue safely storing this nuclear fuel.

In conclusion, this targeted waiver of the 1995 Settlement Agreement between the State of Idaho and DOE will not only support critical national needs but also uphold Idaho's commitment to protecting its land, people, and future. It showcases a collaborative effort between different entities working towards a common goal - advancing nuclear energy research while ensuring safety and responsibility.

Filed Under: Government, State

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