In an effort to maintain transparency, Xcel Energy has released an update on the presence of tritium at one of its monitoring wells near the Mississippi River. The latest measurements have registered tritium concentrations at 19,800 picocuries per liter, just shy of the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) drinking water standard of 20,000 picocuries per liter. According to a statement released by Wright County, this level was detected in a well roughly 40 feet underground, significantly deeper than the riverbed itself, while shallower wells have not shown tritium at the same concentrations.
Xcel Energy has been working to proactively recover impacted groundwater, employing measures to adjust the amount of water pumped to more effectively pull the tritiated water away from the river. However, despite escalated concerns, the company insists that tritium has not been detected in the Mississippi River above natural levels. They continue to confidently assert that the local drinking water supply remains unaffected. "Residents in the area do not need to take any action and can continue drinking the water they currently use," the statement reassures.
While the situation does not necessitate mandatory regulatory action at this time, Xcel Energy is continuing its cleanup efforts and is adjusting its groundwater recovery processes. The power company has emphasized its commitment to the community, reassuring that "We remain committed to being good neighbors and stewards of the environment, as well as following all regulations, as we continue the clean-up."
Meanwhile, the plant is undergoing a regularly scheduled refueling outage that began last month. Xcel has informed area residents to expect an increase in local activity, both at the plant and in the community, as contractors arrive to assist with the work. "The plant’s regularly scheduled refueling outage, which began on Friday, April 18, remains on track," the company stated, hinting at a diligently monitored and controlled process. The company has pledged to continue updating the public with new information regarding both the tritium levels and the ongoing plant operations.
