Environmental Impact Statement for an Early Site Permit (ESP) at the Exelon ESP Site

This environmental impact statement (EIS) has been prepared in response to an application submitted to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) by Exelon Generation Company, LLC (Exelon) for an early site permit (ESP). The proposed action requested in Exelon's application is for the NRC to (1) approve a site within the existing Clinton Power Station (CPS) boundaries as suitable for the construction and operation of a new nuclear power generating facility and (2) issue an ESP for the proposed site identified as the Exelon ESP site located adjacent to the CPS. In its application, Exelon proposes a plan for redressing the environmental effects of certain site-preparation and construction activities, i.e., those activities allowed by Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 50.10(e)(1), performed by an ESP holder under 10 CFR 52.25. In accordance with the plan, the site would be redressed if the NRC issues the requested ESP (containing the site redress plan), the ESP holder performs these site-preparation and construction activities, the ESP is not referenced in an application for a construction permit or combined operating license, and no alternative use is found for the site. This EIS includes the NRC staff's analysis that considers and weighs the environmental impacts of constructing and operating a new nuclear unit at the Exelon ESP site or at alternative sites, and mitigation measures available for reducing or avoiding adverse impacts. It also includes the staff's recommendation to the Commission regarding the proposed action.