Feds Approve New Nuclear Waste Cans: Holtec Gets Green Light
Published Date: 4/2/2026
Rule
Summary
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission just updated the list of approved storage systems for used nuclear fuel by adding two new versions (B1 and B2) of Holtec’s HI-STORM UMAX canister design. This change affects nuclear plants using these storage casks and takes effect on June 16, 2026, unless people send in serious objections by May 4. No big costs are expected, but this update keeps nuclear waste storage safe and up to date.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
New HI-STORM UMAX Versions Approved
The NRC added Amendment No. 5 to Certificate of Compliance No. 1040 to list two new HI-STORM UMAX versions (Version B1 and B2). When effective June 16, 2026 (unless significant adverse comments are received by May 4, 2026), persons holding a general license under 10 CFR 72.210 may load spent nuclear fuel into HI-STORM UMAX casks that meet Amendment No. 5 criteria.
No Forced Retrofits for Existing Users
Amendment No. 5 applies only to new casks fabricated and used under Amendment No. 5; existing users remain governed by Amendment No. 4 and are not required to adopt the new design. Adoption of Amendment No. 5 by current users is voluntary and the NRC determined this change does not constitute backfitting under Sec. 72.62.
No Significant Environmental or Radiation Change
The NRC found, based on its safety evaluation and environmental assessment, that Amendment No. 5 does not result in a significant increase in effluents, occupational or offsite radiation exposures, or the potential for radiological accidents, and would remain within limits specified by 10 CFR part 20.
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