Federal Commission Finds Diablo Canyon Power Plant Safe to Operate for 20 More Years

SAN LUIS OBISPO — Diablo Canyon Power Plant is safe to operate for another 20 years, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission said today in its Safety Evaluation Report.

The conclusion is another key milestone to re-license the plant. Continuing the plant supports the state's electric reliability and affordability. It also helps the state meet its aggressive climate goals.

Re-licensing gives the state more options if the plant is needed beyond 2030. The legislature approved Senate Bill 846, which allows for the extended operations. The governor signed the bill in 2022.

Diablo Canyon is the state's largest clean energy producer. It provides 10% of the state’s electric demand and serves 4 million customers.

The report comes after years of technical reviews, audits, inspections and public comment.

The report found that PG&E will manage the plant safely and within regulations during extended operations.  This conclusion was based on required safety reviews and in-depth inspections of both nuclear reactors — known as Units 1 and 2 — at the site.

Additional re-licensing steps include a final environmental impact statement expected this month.

Also required are approvals from the California Coastal Commission and the Regional Water Board.