Washington, DC -- “The Nuclear Regulatory Commission staff is wrong in saying there are no environmental impacts to stop the renewal of the Indian Point licenses for the next 20 years. There are the matters of the continual problems with the Indian Point infrastructure, with seemingly endless leaks and unplanned shutdowns.

“On Thursday, we learned the recent electrical transformer explosion at Indian Point resulted in thousands of gallons of oil spilling into the Hudson River.  Entergy failed to notify the public another reminder of Entergy’s disregard for public safety and indifference to the region’s environment. Indian Point takes in 2.5 billion gallons a day from the Hudson River, returning it 16 degrees warmer and thestate is demanding cooling towers to keep the heated waters from destroying fish and river life.

“Indian Point is responsible for a long list of environmental assaults on the Hudson River and the region.  The area surrounding the power plant has been plagued by reports of radioactive materials and known carcinogens.  Strontium 90, a highly radioactive material that can cause leukemia, has been found in wells in the area only 100 yards from the Hudson River.  Tritium, cesium, and cobalt have also been found in the surrounding area. 

“I am tired of the NRC working for the industry and not for the people of New York.  It needs to step up and protect the health of the people of New York, and the safety of our Hudson River. It is unfathomable that NRC finds no significant environmental impact from a facility that has repeatedly contaminated our water and risked our health. The Hudson River is a natural treasure and a rich habitat for many of the East Coast's migratory fish species. It is a critical recreational and ecological resource for the people of New York.

“This report misses the most significant aspect about the Indian Point Nuclear Facility: It should not be there.  The plant is 24 miles from America’s largest city and financial capital and nestled among people who lack a road capacity allowing them to escape any accident or other catastrophe.

“The Commission itself must take a broader look at the circumstances of the plant, override its staff recommendation and rule against Indian Point’s license renewal approval on any grounds.”

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