By TYLER GREEN
Daily Press Staff Writer
Recommendations in a draft report released by Blue Ribbon Commission subcommittees earlier this month could be an indication that southeast New Mexico has a strong future as a key player in nuclear endeavors.
While the recommendations are a draft and might be modified, if adopted, they could become part of the BRC’s final report on nuclear endeavors and waste disposal slated to be delivered to the Secretary of Energy in January. And, if the final report reflects the initial drafts, it could lead to legislation supporting area projects that bring high-quality, high-paying jobs to the area.
According to Eddy County Commissioner Jack Volpato, the draft recommendations support what the Eddy Lea Energy Alliance – a group composed of Hobbs, Carlsbad, Lea and Eddy Counties formed to promote nuclear endeavors in Southeast New Mexico – has been working to achieve.
Two of the BRC subcommittees recommended, “the United States should proceed expeditiously to establish one or more consolidated interim storage facilities as part of an integrated, comprehensive plan for managing the back-end of the nuclear fuel cycle.” The recommendation is a potential thumbs-up for the ELEA and its proactive purchase of 1,000 acres of land eight miles south of the WIPP in Lea County as a potential site for interim storage. … For the rest of the story, subscribe in print and on the web.
