Permit process begins for additional nuclear storage at Prairie Island
PRAIRIE ISLAND, Minn. (KTTC) – The Minnesota Public Utilities (MPU) Commission has completed Xcel Energy’s application for additional spent nuclear fuel storage for the Prairie Island Nuclear Generation Plant, beginning the permitting process.
The application suggests that additional storage will be needed before the plant ceases operation in 2033. Part of Xcel’s pending plan is to extend the plant’s life to 2053-54.
Over the next year, the Department of Commerce will prepare an environmental impact statement (EIS) and hold public meetings and hearings to discuss the scope of the EIS. The first meeting, scheduled for April 24-25, will take place in Red Wing and online.
The Commission will hear input from interested parties and the public and determine whether Excel can store additional spent nuclear waste in the facility.
The Prairie Island plant, along with Monticello’s nuclear plant, makes up approximately 24% of the electricity in Minnesota.
Additional information can be found on the Commission’s website and searching for Docket 24-68.
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