ML053010350

Draft, NRC Provides Update on Review Process for Vermont Yankee Uprate Request

ML053010350
Person / Time
Site:	Vermont Yankee File:NorthStar Vermont Yankee icon.png
Issue date:	05/04/2004
From:	Office of Public Affairs
To:
References
FOIA/PA-2004-0369
Download: ML053010350 (1)

Text

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• -. May 4,2004 (3:44PM)

OPA D RAFT l

(Source: draft letter)

NRC PROVIDES UPDATE ON REVIEW PROCESS FOR VERMONT YANKEE UPRATE REQUEST The Nuclear Regulatory Commission today announced it will utilize a new engineering

'I assessment inspection as part of its review of Entergy Nuclear's request to increase the power output of the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant by 20 percent.

The NRC's intentions are discussed in the agency's reply to the Vermont Public Service Board's (PSB) request for assurances about Vermont Yankee's reliability following an uprate.

Although the NRC's regulatory authority does not cover reliability specifically, the agency oversees many safety-related systems and functions that contribute to a plant's reliable operation.

"The agency remains committed to ensuring continued safe operation of Vermont Yankee. I have given the Governor my assurances on this," NRC Chairman Nils Diaz said.

In addition to its substantial uprate review process, the NRC has decided to also conduct a new engineering design inspection, which has been under development for several months to enhance the Reactor Oversight Process. The inspection will provide additional information for

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