Federal-State Cooperation in Nuclear Power Plant Licensing

摘要

A growing number of States are involved in environmental review in nuclear power plant licensing. The diversity of State siting laws and licensing procedures are sources of inefficiency in Federal-State cooperation. Improvements are needed to avoid wasteful duplication and licensing delays. This paper is presented in three parts. Part I discusses: (1) environmental issues and the related roles of the NRC, the utility applicant, and other State and Federal agencies; (2) the basis of interest for State involvement in licensing activities; and (3) the basis of interest for a continued Federal role. Part II provides a review of contrasting State practices in the licensing process, with special focus on issues such as need for facility and sitting. Part III describes initiatives by the NRC to improve licensing cooperation, formal agreements with States regarding licensing procedures, research studies on safety and environmental review methodologies, improved coordination with other Federal agencies, and generic rulemaking.