As a result of the tremendous efforts of industry professionals at 103 reactors across the country, I am proud to report that all U.S. nuclear power plants have demonstrated that all safety systems are Year 2000 ready. The comprehensive and uniform Y2K program NEI developed in 1997 is broad based. It looks at all systems that are important to plant operations, not just a few critical systems. Readiness and Year 2000 Readiness Contingency Planning . Throughout the process, NEI has carefully monitored and reported the status of nuclear industry preparation to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the North American Electric Reliability Council.
Safety is the nuclear energy industry's top priority.
We recognize our obligation to assure adequate protection of public health and safety. With this in mind, the first systems to undergo evaluation were those related to plant safety. The industry has worked closely with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, in an open process that facilitates meaningful oversight of the industry program. After careful assessment and evaluation, industry experts are convinced that nuclear utilities will continue to produce safe, reliable, clean and affordable electricity for our homes, neighborhoods, businesses and industries without being impacted by Y2K issues. The Institute also has worked closely with the North American Electric Reliability Council in its effort to ensure reliable generation, transmission and distribution of electricity to customers.