Federal loan application
To approve USEC Inc.’s $2 billion federal loan application Ohio’s congressional delegation is continuing to ratchet up pressure on the Department of Energy. It was even as the federal and company energy officials work out remaining details on an alternate plan. It would provide a short-term boost for the American Centrifuge Project. The lawmakers have raised questions about the interim plan. It would provide $300 million in federal funds to USEC for further development and research. It also will keep the company’s loan application on hold until it’s clear the centrifuge project is viable.
DOE has said the proposed deal would allow federal officials to work with USEC on reducing the “financial and technical risks associated with the project.” It unveiled early in October and still under negotiation.
A next-generation uranium enrichment project slated for Piketon the American Centrifuge uses a new technology. It could have both commercial and national security application. The project is projected to bring as many as 400 long-term positions and 4,000 construction jobs to Piketon. USEC and DOE already have invested years in the initiative, but more of both will be needed to make it a reality. DOE’s latest offer could be a set-back, U.S. Rep. Jean Schmidt, R-Miami Township said.