Diablo Canyon seeks license extension

Posted: Nov 24, 2009 8:09 PM by Stacy Daniel
Updated: Nov 24, 2009 8:09 PM

PG&E announced, that it's filed an extension on the plant's operating license That could extend it's life by 20 years.
The news was met with mixed reaction by supporters and opponents of nuclear power.
KSBY takes a closer look at both sides by putting the issue on the balance bar.
PG&E says nuclear power is safe and reliable.
Adding the plant provides an economic benefit to the county and that nuclear power is better for the environment.
Opponents say nuclear energy is dangerous. It places a burden on rate payers and that it produces hazardous waste.
This a hot button issue with people on both sides speaking out.
Boasting the benefits of nuclear power, officials with PG&E and Diablo Canyon Power Plant announce they've filed an application to renew the plant's operating license until the year 2045.
Senior Vice President of Energy Supply and Chief Nuclear Officer for PG&E, John Conway says, "This request for license extension brings us one step closer to achieving our companies vision of becoming a leading utility in the United States and supports our position as an environmental leader in the battle against climate change."
But, not everyone here supports the plant's request.
David Weisman, a spokesperson with the community watchdog group, Alliance for Nuclear Responsibility says he's concerned about the economics of nuclear power and it's fairness to rate payers.
Weisman says PG&E bypassed the Public Utilities Commission and went straight to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, for license approval.
And that, he says is cause for concern.
Weisman says, "It appears to me that P.G&E has decided they're going rouge, I guess and trying to avoid any state regulatory control on this license renewal, state regulators who look out for our pocketbooks and what it's going to cost us to pay for electricity in the future."
PG&E officials say there will be plenty of time for everyone to have their concerns addressed.
The license extension process can take up to four years to complete.