ML19274E971
| ML19274E971 | |
| Person / Time | |
|---|---|
| Site: | South Texas  |
| Issue date: | 04/25/1979 |
| From: | Pickle J HOUSE OF REP. |
| To: | Hendrie J NRC COMMISSION (OCM) |
| References | |
| NUDOCS 7906070043 | |
| Download: ML19274E971 (2) | |
Text
NRC PLTLIC DOCUMENT nooy J. J. PICKLE conswivru, b Y...... y n:n 2,iJ'L150 g.y $$.l./h$ d WAYS AND MEANS t erw Desvect. TxxAs
.u.co
.,vru..
wasw.seevose apoetses CHAIRMAN. SOCIAL SECURITY
"~21 Ol ~
Congregg of ti.)e Einitch 6tates
,,/;",'",%";,,,
Klause of 31tpresentatibeg Auevne. Tu4s 7870s Ma51)i11gt011, D.C. 20515 oln ssr-ssu g
q Q
,,o April 25,1979
/d, 9g7 4
I h
C.
)u*
s b
Honorable Joseph M. Hendrie j
y Chairman Cb t W Nuclear Regulatory Commission 1717 H St., NW Washington, D.C.
20555
Dear Mr. Chairman:
Austin citizens recently voted to retain the municipally-owned utility's 16% share in the South Texas Nuclear Project, built in partnership with other cities and firms.
This was the correct decision in my opinion.
The election attracted national attention, because it was billed a.s the first referendum on nuclear power since the mishap at Three Mile Island. A majority of voters was willing to authorize additional bond sales to finance increased costs, while maintaining confidence in nuclear power as an energy source.
Other voters saw their faith shaken by the events at Three Miles Island. Everyone--regulators, the industry and consumers--discovered that as much as we know about atomic energy, we still have more to learn.
I am therefore writing you to request some answers, relating to the South Texas Nuclear Project.
The STP uses a Westinghouse design, which reduces the likelihood of an accident similar to the Babcock and Wilcox plant in Pennsylvania. However, I have read of possible problems with the Westinghouse steam generators.
What has the NRC found about this potential flaw, and has it been explored at the Texas plant?
In view of Three Mile Island, can you tell if Westinghouse 790stry60 I,3 f
THIS STATIONERY PRINTED CN PAPER MA DE WITH RECYCLED F1SERS
designs in general, or the South Texas Project in particular, will require modifications? Will the Commission conduct a safety review of the facility?
I would also like to know how the commission monitors actual construction in Matagorda County.
Are personnel stationed at the site, or are there routine or surprise inspections?
All parties in the South Texas Nuclear Project have a tremendous economic and health investment at stake. Regulation of nuclear power must be efficient, yet deliberate.
Nuclear energy should have a strong role in the production of electricity. This role should not be eliminated because of either human or mechanical errors. Your assistance in answering these questions will help us move forward on the South Texas Nuclear Project with confidence.
Sincerely, e
J..J.
PICKLE JJP:j h
- - -