NRC Sets Deadline For Earthquake Risk Analysis

14 May (NucNet): The US Nuclear Regulatory Commission has set a June 2017 deadline for two of three western US operating nuclear power plants to conduct in-depth analyses of their updated earthquake risk, a statement said. The NRC has asked Columbia, in Washington, and Diablo Canyon, in California, to submit their detailed risk analysis by 30 June 2017. The NRC said it is continuing to examine information from Palo Verde, in Arizona, and if it concludes the plant needs the in-depth risk analysis it must complete the work by 31 December 2020. The NRC said seismic submittals showed all three plants’ engineering and construction methods added safety margin beyond their original designs’ anticipated hazards. Should the plants’ additional analysis indicate more permanent actions are necessary, the NRC will ensure the plants “respond appropriately”. The NRC’s blog has more information on the seismic reevaluation process: http://1.usa.gov/1RIU5KC