In this update: Moniz: Update On Consent-Based Siting ECA Staff

Moniz: Update On Consent-Based Siting
ECA Staff

Today, Secretary Moniz delivered an update on the Department of Energy’s efforts to develop a consent-based approach to the siting of spent nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste facilities to support a long-term, sustainable solution for managing our Nation’s nuclear waste.
 
To launch the consent-based siting effort with the public, the Department is issuing an Invitation for Public Comment in the Federal Register soliciting input on important considerations in designing a fair and effective process for siting. Please respond to the Invitation for Public Comment in the Federal Register, which will be published in the coming days, or email  consentbasedsiting@hq.doe.gov.
 
DOE welcomes all comments on the following questions:

• How can the Department ensure that the process for selecting a site is fair?
• What models and experience should the Department use in designing the process?
• Who should be involved in the process for selecting a site, and what should be their role?
• What information and resources do you think necessary to facilitate your participation?
• What else should be considered?

The Secretary also announced that the Department will be hosting a series of public meetings around the country in 2016. The purpose of these meetings is to hear from the public and stakeholders on important principles, values, and considerations that should guide DOE's thinking as DOE begins designing a consent-based siting process. A “kick-off meeting” will set the tone for these public engagement meetings and will be held in Washington, DC at the beginning of next year.
 
Contact consentbasedsiting@hq.doe.gov with any questions, and please visit the Department’s website, energy.gov/consentbasedsiting, for more information and opportunities to engage.