Press Releases

Today, Rep. Salud Carbajal (CA-24) requested additional information from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) regarding funding available for oversight and safe decommissioning of the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Powerplant after the Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), California’s largest utility company, filed for bankruptcy.

Carbajal sought additional assurance from the NRC that the utility company’s financial circumstances would not impact their compliance with decommissioning funding assurance requirements, the agency’s safety and security measures, or the decommissioning trust fund for the facility.

“My first priority is ensuring the safety of our Central Coast community,” said Rep. Carbajal. “In light of PG&E’s announcement today, I’m requesting an update from the NRC on how this development will affect their approach to overseeing the decommissioning of the facility.” 

A copy of Rep. Carbajal’s letter can be found here, and the full text is below:

January 29, 2019

Chairman Kristine L. Svinicki

U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission

Mail Stop O-16G4

Washington, DC 20555-0001

Dear Chairman Svinicki:

I am writing to express my concerns regarding the safe operation and decommissioning of the two nuclear reactors at the Diablo Canyon Power Plant in San Luis Obispo, California.

Given today’s motion by the Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) Company, in which they have filed for bankruptcy, I would like to know the following:

• What steps is the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) taking to exercise its duty to ensure the safety of the nuclear power plant operations?
• As you have previously assured my office, can you provide an overview of the actions the NRC has taken in conducting an assessment to ensure there are sufficient funds set aside for the decommissioning process?
• Are there any expected changes that could impact the planned decommissioning date of 2024/2025?

As you know, the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant continues to be an important asset for our community in the Central Coast of California. Many of my constituents are deeply concerned about any impacts a bankruptcy could have on the safe operations of the plant and current decommissioning plans.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my request. I look forward to hearing back from you on this important issue. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact my office.

Sincerely,

SALUD CARBAJAL

Member of Congress

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