Climate Changed
Nuclear Reactors Could Run as Long as 80 Years Under Trump Plan
- Department of Energy preparing to back license extensions
- Utilities have sought longer life spans for some reactors
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The U.S. Energy Department is throwing its support behind a request by utilities to extend the life of some nuclear power reactors -- keeping them in operation for as long as 80 years.
An official with the department, who asked not to be named to discuss its decision-making process, said the agency was conducting research and working with utilities seeking permission from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to allow nuclear reactors built in the 1970s to keep operating to 2050 and beyond.