Opposition to Holtec International’s plan to store high-level nuclear waste in New Mexico are not giving up despite a recent win for the company. A panel of judges rejected 50 objections to the New Jersey company’s plan for storing almost 9000 metric tons of greater than Class C waste in their facility.
This blow to opponents keeps the application for license underway with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Holtec says that HLW could be shipped to them for storage as early as 2023. These dry storage casks would stay in Southeastern New Mexico for 120 years.
Sierra Club and Beyond Nuclear, two nonprofits that are battling Holtec International’s license, report that they will appeal the judges’ decision. Environmental groups have voiced their concerns over the project and are astounded that it is even being considered.