The report briefed by the Office of Nuclear Energy is more optimistic in its performance projections and time to restart, expressing confidence that the facility can make 2.2 kg. of tritium per year, starting in 2003. The Dual Path Strategy has been accepted b DOD and the White House and is gaining support in Congress. Pursuing the FFTF option would require addition of a third track to the tritium strategy and would require additional funds. There is no ultimate disposition path or plan for high fissile content spent fuel. Hanford has been dedicated to a clean-up mission.
Questions exist related to the impact of potential external regulation.
Following discussion of these points Deputy Secretary Curtis summarized that even if we assume that the Office of Nuclear Energy's projections arc correct, and not withstanding the programmatic risks, the FFTF cannot meet the mission requirements. The FFTF cannot produce the full goal quantity and surge to replenish the reserve if needed. Therefore, FFTF cannot replace either of the dual track technologies, nor is it capable of performing a contingency role in a cost effective manner. Therefore, the Tritium Executive Board concluded that reduction of tritium in FFTF by DOE should be pursued no further. A private consortium supported by Congressman Hastings and local politicians have made an issue of their desire to operate FFTF as a privatized facility to make tritium for the Department until a viable medical isotope business can be developed.