Does Centrus Energy’s In-House Testing and Dose Analysis Raise Oversight Concerns?

WASHINGTON, D.C. - As Centrus Energy Corp. moves forward with its role in the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) High-Assay Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) program, new questions are emerging about the independence of radiological monitoring and dose analysis performed at its facility in Piketon, Ohio.

Centrus Energy’s subsidiary, American Centrifuge Operating, LLC (ACO), operates the facility and conducts in-house radiological testing, effluent monitoring, and public dose assessments. This dual role—operator and compliance tester—has sparked concerns about potential conflicts of interest, especially given that Centrus also performs its own radiological dose analyses to demonstrate compliance with federal safety standards.

In-House Testing and Dose Analysis

According to reports submitted to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), Centrus is responsible for monitoring radiological emissions, including effluents and public exposure. The data includes measurements of uranium isotopes and public dose levels, which have consistently been reported as well below regulatory thresholds. For instance, the public dose due to gaseous effluents in the first half of 2024 was reported to be 1.6 × 10⁻⁵ millirem—far below safety limits.

In addition, Centrus conducts internal dose modeling and derived concentration guideline level (DCGL) calculations to assess potential exposure risks. While these assessments are reviewed by the NRC, the absence of independent third-party validation has raised questions about the reliability of self-reported data.

Oversight and Independence Concerns

Critics argue that allowing Centrus to perform both operational and compliance roles could compromise objectivity. Although the NRC reviews submissions and conducts its own confirmatory assessments, the lack of third-party testing may leave room for doubt about the integrity of the data.

Some have called for independent laboratories to validate radiological emissions and dose calculations, which could bolster transparency and public trust in the program.

Regulatory Confidence

Despite these concerns, the NRC has stated that Centrus meets its regulatory requirements. The agency has reviewed Centrus’ dose analyses and operational processes, concluding that the methods used align with federal standards.

However, questions remain about whether greater oversight or external auditing is necessary as the DOE increases investment in HALEU production as part of a larger push toward advanced nuclear energy.