Uranium Mine Gets 20-Year Renewal Before It Exists
Published Date: 5/27/2026
Notice
Summary
NuFuels Inc. wants to renew its license to run the Crownpoint Uranium Project, a facility that hasn’t been built yet, for another 20 years. This affects local communities and anyone interested in uranium mining, giving them a chance to speak up by July 27, 2026. If approved, NuFuels can move forward with their plans, potentially impacting the environment and economy over the next two decades.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.
Potential 20-Year Operation Authorization
If the NRC grants the renewal, NuFuels would be authorized to operate the Crownpoint In-Situ Recovery facility for 20 years beyond the date of approval. The project proposal includes constructing the Crownpoint Central Plant and three satellite facilities in McKinley County, New Mexico.
Large Satellite Production Capacity
Each proposed satellite facility (Crownpoint, Unit 1, and Church Rock Section 8) is designed for a production capacity of up to 1,000,000 pounds of triuranium octoxide (U3O8) per year. The loaded ion-exchange resin from satellites would be transported to the Crownpoint Central Plant for further processing and drying.
Deadline to Request a Hearing
Any person whose interests may be affected can file a request for a hearing or a petition to intervene in NRC proceedings about the Crownpoint license renewal. Petitions must be filed no later than July 27, 2026 (60 days after the May 27, 2026 publication); States, local governmental bodies, and Federally recognized Indian Tribes may file to participate as parties within the same 60-day period.
NEPA Environmental Review Will Be Prepared
The NRC will prepare a National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) environmental document for the proposed license renewal in accordance with 10 CFR part 51 before making a licensing decision. Copies of the application and related documents are available in the NRC public ADAMS system and at the NRC Public Document Room while the application is under review.
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