Edhat Staff
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has granted permission for Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) to continue operating the Diablo Canyon Power Plant during the ongoing review of its License Renewal Application.
This decision allows the plant to generate electricity while the NRC conducts a multi-year evaluation of PG&E’s application ensuring a continuous power supply
The licensing for Diablo Canyon Power Plant’s Unit 1 was scheduled to expire in 2024 and Unit 2 in 2025. The extended operations were enabled following a state legislature decision and federal funding in 2022 to maintain operations.
In 2016, PG&E had agreed to close the Diablo Canyon Power Plant. The reversal of that decision, in combination with federal approval for continued operations, and the California Public Utilities Commission’s decision earlier this month to extend operations for an additional five years, solidifies the future of the plant.
Diablo Canyon Power Plant, located near Avila Beach in San Luis Obispo County, holds the title of being the state’s largest power plant. With the capacity to generate enough electricity to meet the needs of three million people, it plays a crucial role in meeting the energy demands of the region.
“PG&E remains committed to complying with energy policies to ensure the state has the option to keep DCPP online past 2025 to ensure electricity reliability as California continues toward its clean energy future,” said Maureen Zawalick, Diablo Canyon Power Plant Vice President.
Zawalick expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue supplying safe, clean, and affordable power to homes and businesses across California.
Even discounting the earthquake/tsunami risk to Diablo Canyon, its aging physical plant is in deplorable condition. Better hope those warning sirens work, and the wind isn’t blowing your way!
It was ridiculous to consider closing Diablo Canyon in the first place. Electricity needs are not being met WITH Diablo Canyon online. At least they came to their senses before they killed it unlike San Onofre.