ML032340475
| ML032340475 | |
| Person / Time | |
|---|---|
| Site: | Mcguire, Catawba, McGuire  |
| Issue date: | 08/08/2003 |
| From: | Jackie Jones National Society of Professional Engineers |
| To: | Martin R NRC/NRR/DLPM/LPD2 |
| References | |
| Download: ML032340475 (1) | |
Text
South Carolina Society of Professional Engineers A state society of the National Society of Protessional Engineers August 8,2003 Robert E. Martin, Senior Project Manager, Section i Project Directorate 11 Division of Ucensing Project Management Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation Nuclear Regulatory Commission One White Flint North 11555 Rockville Pike Rockville, MD 20555-0001
Dear Mr. Martin:
The South Carolina Society of Professional Engineers (SCSPE) supports Duke Energy's license amendment application to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to use mixed oxide fuel lead assemblies in its Catawba or McGuire nuclear stations.
We believe the use of mixed oxide (MOX) fuel in commercial nuclear reactors is an appropriate way to accomplish the timely disposition of surplus weapon-grade plutonium In the United States. Irradiation of MOX fuel will destroy much of the weapons-grade plutonium and isotopically degrade the remainder so that it is less attractive for use in nuclear weapons.
The use of MOX fuel is proven technology - with decades of European experience on which to draw. MOX fuel lead assembly programs have previously been carried out safely in the United States. Both McGuire and Catawba nuclear stations have proven track records of excellent performance and reliability.
The plutonium disposition program has special significance for those of us in the State of South Carolina. Facilities that will convert plutonium into MOX fuel will be located at
--the Departnent -of-Energys -Savannah-f Rler Sit, ahdr-t-CataWba nuclear -station, which will use MOX fuel, is located in South Carolina. It is important for our state and our country that the plutonium disposition program is done promptly, successfully, and safely. Therefore, we encourage the NRC to perform thorough safety, security and environmental reviews in a timely manner.
Sincerely, Joe S. Jones Executive Director P.O. BOX 11937, COLUMBIA, SC 29211.1937 (503) 771.4271