In South Texas, old uranium mines are reopening while newer ones are being planned in response to a growing interest in nuclear energy. State leaders believe that reviving the nuclear sector will supply the massive energy needs of high-tech industries such as cryptocurrency, artificial intelligence, and hydrogen production. There is a push for Texas to become a leading state in nuclear energy production, reflected in the sentiment of influential figures like Reed Clay, president of the Texas Nuclear Alliance. However, the resurgence raises concerns for local communities about potential groundwater contamination.
Residents, including those like Misty Ortega, have been vocal against projects that involve the disposal of radioactive waste. Groundwater management officials have fought to prevent a uranium mine near Goliad County for nearly 15 years, citing risks to local water sources. Despite favorable rulings from administrative law judges, these have been overridden by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, sparking fear that mining will soon commence.
The renewed interest in nuclear energy also stems from recent events such as tech companies like Google and Amazon planning to power their facilities with small nuclear reactors. President Biden has set a goal to triple the U. S. nuclear capacity by 2050, reflecting a broader national strategy to increase reliance on nuclear energy for consistent, low-carbon power. Despite this push, Texas locals worry about the ramifications, especially regarding the safety of their water supply.
The Texas Nuclear Caucus aims to establish supportive policies for the nuclear industry, with rising investments in uranium mining anticipated as part of the overall nuclear revival. Recent reports have indicated that new reactors are likely to be located strategically in ports and industrial centers to cater to large energy demands. Existing companies, such as Dow Chemical, have announced plans for nuclear installations at industrial plants, highlighting a focus on meeting corporate low-carbon objectives through nuclear energy.
However, the potential for mining operations presents significant worry for local residents. Ted Long, a former Goliad County commissioner, expressed concerns for groundwater safety. He has participated in lengthy legal battles against uranium mining projects, emphasizing the lack of effective recourse when state regulators favor industry permits over local environmental concerns. Residents have endured periods of inactivity in uranium mining, only to see renewed interest driven by higher uranium prices and changing energy policies.
Locals like David Michaelsen have taken a stand against the mining operations, arguing that the risks associated with radioactive waste disposal pose a direct threat to groundwater. Their testimonies before administrative judges have been met with the same rejection by state regulators, leading to frustration. Communities are pushing back against the proposed permits, fearing that even small missteps can lead to long-term contamination of their water reserves.
Moreover, historical cases of groundwater pollution from uranium mining lend credence to the residents' apprehensions. Local authorities are attempting to challenge new permits, but there is a sense of helplessness in the face of larger political and corporate interests. With plans to further increase uranium production spurred by energy demands, the Goliad groundwater district continues to rally against the encroaching mining activities.
As debates continue over the environmental repercussions of resuming uranium extraction, the community remains divided on the necessity and safety of nuclear power as a solution to escalating energy requirements. There is a recognition among some stakeholders that while wind and solar power may be the cheapest energy sources, the reliability of nuclear power presents a compelling alternative to meet ongoing and future energy needs. The local resistance showcases a clash between state-level ambitions for energy leadership and grassroots concerns about environmental safety and groundwater health. The ongoing litigation and grassroots advocacy reflect the deep-seated fears that accompany the revival of uranium mining in their region.
https://insideclimatenews.org/news/01122024/texas-uranium-mining-nuclear-renaissance/
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