WHAT IS LICENSE RENEWAL?

Similar to a driver's license that needs to be renewed to allow continued driving, a nuclear power plant also needs to renew its license to continue operating. This is a comprehensive multi-year process by which nuclear plant operating companies can apply to extend the operations of their plants for an additional 20 years beyond the original license term. A federal government agency – the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) – will thoroughly review the license renewal application.

The license renewal process is ongoing, and NextEra Energy Resources remains fully confident that the plant's license renewal application will meet or exceed the NRC's rigorous standards for approval of a safe, reliable and environmentally beneficial period of extended operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can Seabrook operate under its current license?
Seabrook's initial 40-year operating license runs from 1990 to 2030.

Why has Seabrook applied for a license extension?
License renewal approval at this stage of Seabrook Station's operating life will allow the best possible long-term planning of maintenance activities and expenditure of funds for new equipment and systems. This will ensure that Seabrook will be fully ready for an additional 20 years of safe, reliable and emissions-free operation.

If the license renewal is granted, will Seabrook continue to be safe top operate?
Yes. Seabrook has an outstanding safety record and has been evaluated consistently as such by federal regulators and independent industry groups. Plant equipment is carefully tested and maintained, and members of the team are rigorously trained to very high standards of performance.

What is happening now?
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is conducting an extensive review of the multi-volume application. As part of the process, the NRC has been conducting public meetings, and the public will be notified in advance if any additional meetings are scheduled.