BERWICK, Pa. (AP) – The owner of a Pennsylvania nuclear power plant is trying to build a 22,000-square-foot addition to dispose of spent nuclear fuel. The Times-Tribune reports that Talen Generation applied for a permit to build the addition to the Susquehanna Steam plant in Berwick, but Salem Township zoning officials denied the request.
Zoning officials say hazardous waste storage isn’t permitted in the plant’s district. Talen has appealed the denial. A hearing is scheduled Tuesday evening.
A company spokesman says the plant has stored spent fuel within the plant’s perimeter. The firm wants to modify and expand the existing facility to accommodate storage needs. Spent nuclear fuel is stored in water until it cools. It’s then sealed in a cask.
