5 Nov (NucNet): The US Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) has responded to
calls by several senators that the Department of Energy (DOE) abandon
its Yucca Mountain repository, saying the project is "the centerpiece
of national policy to dispose of radioactive waste" and is supported by
more than 20 years of scientific research and analysis.
Several senators opposed the DOE's plan to build a national repository for used nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste at Yucca Mountain, Nevada, during a hearing on the programme before the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee on 31 October 2007.
Although some senators expressed support for Yucca Mountain, others raised questions about the safety and necessity of the project.
NEI chief nuclear officer Marvin Fertel said over the past two decades billions of dollars have been spent on analyses of the repository site by many leading scientific experts.
"This analysis will continue during construction and operation of the repository so that public health and safety of future generations will be protected."
Mr Fertel said the US is leading worldwide efforts to develop geologic disposal facilities for high-level radioactive waste. "This is literally the most studied site of its kind in the world."
During the 31 October hearing, Democratic presidential hopeful Senator Hillary Clinton agreed the US needs to find a long-term solution for its nuclear waste. "But Yucca Mountain is not the answer," said Mrs Clinton.
The DOE is scheduled to file a licence application for Yucca Mountain with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission not later than 30 June 2008.
Related reports in the NucNet database (available to subscribers)
DOE To Submit Yucca Licence Application 'No Later Than End Of June 2008' (News No. 159, 20 July 2006)
NRC Faces 'Major Challenge' Over Yucca Application (News No. 187, 11 August 2007)
Progress Needed On US Repository, Senate Committee Told (News in Brief No. 35, 1 November 2007)
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