NRC moves foward with PSEG nuclear permit review

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has completed its initial review of PSEG's application for an early site permit for a fourth reactor at its Salem County power-generating complex.

The acceptance of this application sets the stage for the NRC's staff to conduct a formal review of the site's appropriateness for a new unit. That process is independent of the application.

The site review will address site-safety issues, environmental-protection issues, and plans for coping with emergencies, said Neil Sheehan, an NRC spokesman. If approved, the early site permit is valid for up to 20 years and can be renewed for up to 20 more.

The application, minus proprietary and security-related details, is available at the NRC website: http:// www.nrc.gov/reactors/new-reactors/esp/pseg.html.

PSEG Nuclear operates the Salem and Hope Creek generating stations at the Hancocks Bridge site, seven miles southwest of Salem.