Stand-by Support for Nuclear Plant Delays

This program allows the Department of Energy (DOE) to cover up to $2 billion in costs caused by delays imposed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s process or litigation. The Secretary of Energy is authorized  to provide contracted standby support for up to six nuclear power plants, providing full coverage (up to $500 million) to the first two licensed reactors and 50 percent coverage (up to $250 million) to the next four. Covered delay costs include litigation over licensing, principle or interest on project debt, the difference between the fair market price for power and the contractual price of power from the plant. This provision was established in the Energy Policy Act of 2005.