Nuclear Plant License Tweaks Deemed Low Risk
Published Date: 7/14/2026
Notice
Summary
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is reviewing a request to update the operating licenses for Catawba Nuclear Station Units 1 and 2, and they believe these changes won’t cause any big safety problems. People who want to comment, ask for a hearing, or get special access to sensitive info must act by specific deadlines this summer. This process keeps things safe while letting the public join the conversation without costing extra money.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Possible early issuance of license amendment
The NRC may issue the license amendment before the normal 60-day waiting period or before the 30-day comment period ends if it makes a final determination of no significant hazards consideration or if delay would cause derating or shutdown. If a final NSHC determination is made and the amendment is issued, any hearing would occur after issuance.
Public comment and hearing deadlines
You can file written comments on the Catawba Units 1 and 2 license amendment by August 13, 2026. If you want to request a hearing or petition to intervene, you must file by September 14, 2026.
Access to sensitive information (SUNSI)
If you intend to participate as a party and need Sensitive Unclassified Non-Safeguards Information (SUNSI), you must request access by July 24, 2026. The request must identify your interest, name and address, and explain why publicly available information is insufficient; the NRC staff will decide within 10 days whether to grant access and may require a Non-Disclosure Agreement or Protective Order. If you receive SUNSI, any contentions based on that information must be filed within 25 days of receiving access.
E-Filing and digital ID requirements
Anyone filing adjudicatory documents must use the NRC E-Filing system, obtain a digital ID certificate at least 10 days before the filing deadline, and submit documents in PDF by 11:59 p.m. ET on the due date. Help is available from the NRC Electronic Filing Help Desk.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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