Monitor this situation.
Unsubscribe anytime.
[SITUATION] · [QUIET] · [BUSINESS]
2 clusters · 4 sources · 3 days · First seen · Last updated
Holtec wastewater discharge dispute in Cape Cod Bay
Overview
The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has prohibited Holtec International from discharging treated wastewater from the decommissioned Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station into Cape Cod Bay.
Holtec sought a permit to release up to 1.1 million gallons of water containing radioactive elements, metals, and PFAS “forever chemicals,” arguing the discharge would remain below federal safety limits. However, MassDEP ruled the discharge constitutes industrial wastewater, which violates the Massachusetts Ocean Sanctuaries Act. The decision followed opposition from environmental activists, fishermen, and the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe.
Following the initial prohibition, MassDEP dismissed an appeal by Holtec that challenged the agency’s jurisdictional authority under the Atomic Energy Act. As of the latest reports, approximately 790,000 gallons of the water remain on-site due to evaporation. Holtec may still pursue further legal action in Massachusetts Superior Court.
Entities
Cape Cod Bay · Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection · Holtec International · Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station · Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe
Timeline
-
8 days ago
[BUSINESS] 2 sourcesMassDEP blocks Holtec from discharging Pilgrim wastewater into Cape Cod BayMassDEP has dismissed Holtec International’s appeal to discharge up to 1.1 million gallons of treated wastewater from the decommissioned Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station into Cape Cod Bay.
-
11 days ago
[POLITICS] 2 sourcesMassachusetts blocks Holtec from discharging wastewater into Cape Cod BayMassachusetts has blocked Holtec from discharging treated wastewater from the Pilgrim Nuclear Power Station into Cape Cod Bay, citing protections under the state's Ocean Sanctuaries Act.
Sources
europesays.com · onthewater.com · tmia.com · wbur.org