NuStart Energy Press Conference

Last week we told you about how NuStart Energy had selected six finalists as possible sites to test the NRC combined construction and operating license process. Steve Kerekes, our head of media relations, was at their Washington, D.C. press conference earlier today, and sent along this report.

Sixteen reporters turned out for this afternoon's 40 minute NuStart news conference at the National Press Club. A handful of folks from the Hill as well.

Event went well; about a dozen good questions after the remarks by DOE's Clay Sell, NEI's Marv Fertel and NuStart's (Exelon's) Marilyn Kray. Lots of solid curiosity. NuStart members well-represented at the head table -- which I actually felt was perhaps the most notable aspect of the event. It sent a strong signal about industry commitment to advance the ball.

Vendors said a 48-month construction timetable is do-able. Kray said industry prides itself on planning and preparedness, and wants to be ready when the market is ripe for new baseload. Marv expressed confidence in the Yucca Mountain program, particularly with where the program will be in the 2008 time frame when consortium intends to to submit COL application to NRC. Several company reps said that feedback from the political communities and Wall Street is favorable. Kray said the consortium is encouraged both by its financial analyses and the support it sees in Congress with regard to energy legislation. And, last but not least, Sell said, "This administration believes nuclear power is back."

For more about NuStart, read their FAQ.

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