We’ve had great discussions lately with both the current and future companies who will handle the management and operations contract at the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant. SIMCO is in the process of taking over the contract, while NWP is assisting with the transition. There will be some changes to upper level management positions, but most WIPP jobs won’t be impacted.
In the meantime, NWP says its goal is to finish strong.
On Oct. 20, crews emplaced the final container of TRU waste in Panel 7 of the WIPP underground. This ended years of operational impacts to waste handling operations and the workforce. Crews have been able to return to safer, more efficient working conditions.
This also means that panel 8 is now being used in the WIPP underground. Crews emplaced the first container there on Nov. 11. Emplacing waste in Panel 8 only requires one crew. Respirators and anti-contamination suits are not required.
The return to normal emplacement activities has allowed WIPP to increase its waste handling efficiency, which also leads to faster shipments. According to WIPP, crews there recently achieved a 50 percent increase in downloading capacity. This leads to a faster cleanup of generator sites. This week, WIPP received 19 shipments, and 16 shipments are expected next week.
WIPP also reports positive developments with other major projects at the facility, including the Utility Shaft and the Safety Significant Confinement Ventilation System (SSCVS). The shaft mining process is now nearing the 800-foot mark and will reach the full depth of 2,150 feet by the end of the next year. Plans are underway to allow WIPP to retain its headframe and mucking capability. The salt reduction and filter buildings, which are part of the ventilation system, are nearing completion.
Mining in the WIPP underground is also taking place in preparation for Panels 11 and 12, as crews are mining the three west main drifts that will lead to the new waste disposal panels. WIPP is currently mining further to the west than it ever has before.
We had the opportunity to visit WIPP during last week’s dedication in honor of John Heaton, and we were impressed by the facility and workforce. NWP did a great job with its mission at WIPP, and an excellent workforce and facility is being delivered to SIMCO. Thanks again to Sean Dunagan, Mark Pearcy, Keith Stone and everyone with NWP’s leadership team, as well as the entire workforce. Congratulations on your many successes.
Sincerely,
Carlsbad Mayor Dale Janway