Massachusetts blocks Holtec from discharging wastewater into Cape Cod Bay

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has issued a final decision prohibiting Holtec from discharging treated wastewater from the decommissioned Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station into Cape Cod Bay.

Holtec had requested a modified permit to release up to 1.1 million gallons of wastewater, which contains radioactive elements, metals, and PFAS “forever chemicals.” The company argued that the discharge was the most environmentally friendly option and that pollutant concentrations would remain well below federal safety limits and detectable levels in the receiving waters.

However, MassDEP determined that the water qualifies as industrial wastewater, making its discharge a violation of the Massachusetts Ocean Sanctuaries Act. This act prohibits the dumping of industrial wastes into the protected bay. The decision follows significant opposition from a coalition including environmental activists, fishermen, and the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe. While the state's decision is final, Holtec may still pursue a court appeal regarding jurisdictional authority and the technical definition of waste.