NRC Reviews Monticello Nuke Plant Safety Updates
Published Date: 2/20/2025
Notice
Summary
Northern States Power Company wants to update the emergency rules for the Monticello Nuclear Plant to keep things safer and clearer during emergencies. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is reviewing this change and asking the public to share their thoughts by March 6, 2025. If anyone wants to challenge or discuss the update, they have until April 21, 2025, to step up—no big costs or delays expected, just smarter safety!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Emergency Level Updated to 60-Minute Rule
The Monticello plant would change its Emergency Action Level HU3.6 so the river-level trigger (less than 902.4 feet elevation) only applies if the river stays below 902.4 feet for 60 minutes. The change is intended to avoid declaring an emergency for short transients where the gauge dips briefly below 902.4 ft.
Public Comment and Hearing Deadlines
The public may submit comments on the proposed amendment by March 6, 2025, and must file requests for a hearing or petitions to intervene by April 21, 2025. Interested persons have at least 14 days from publication to comment and 60 days to request a hearing or intervene.
NRC Finds No Significant Hazards Consideration
The NRC staff preliminarily proposes that the amendment involves no significant hazards consideration (NSHC) under 10 CFR 50.92, concluding the change would not increase the probability or consequences of an evaluated accident, create a new kind of accident, or significantly reduce a margin of safety. The licensee provided analysis responding 'No' to each of the three 10 CFR 50.92 questions.
Amendment Could Be Issued Early to Avoid Shutdown
Although a 14-day notice period is normally observed, the Commission may issue the amendment before that period ends if failing to act in time could result in derating or shutdown of the facility. The Commission will do so only if it determines the amendment involves no significant hazards consideration and will publish a notice of issuance if it takes that action.
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