TVA is evaluating the use of MOX fuel in its Sequoyah units 1 and 2, its Browns Ferry units 1, 2, and 3, as well as future reactors. Following further evaluation, TVA and MOX Services intend to enter contract negotiations that could result in the execution of an agreement in the summer of 2010 for irradiation of MOX fuel in two or more reactors. According to current schedules, the MOX facility will begin producing fuel in 2016. In addition to TVA, there are three other utilities interested in irradiating MOX fuel.
“The letter of intent signed by the Tennessee Valley Authority and MOX Services is an important step forward for a critical nuclear nonproliferation objective,” said NNSA Principal Assistant Deputy Administrator for Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation Ken Baker. “By disposing of surplus weapons plutonium in a transparent and irreversible manner, the United States is demonstrating our commitment to meeting our nuclear nonproliferation commitments. The MOX program is an important component of our nuclear security agenda that also holds the promise of cheaper nuclear reactor fuel for consumers.”
MOX Services is NNSA’s contractor to build and operate the Mixed Oxide Fuel Fabrication Facility, which currently is under construction at the Savannah River Site near Aiken, South Carolina. The MOX fuel will be fabricated from surplus weapon-grade plutonium at the facility.
