The Department of Energy is seeking trucking companies to
ship transuranic waste from federal sites to the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant in
New Mexico.
Transuranic waste – tools, parts, protective gear, debris
and similar items contaminated with radioactive material – is shipped in
special containers on trucks driven by specially trained drivers. On Wednesday,
DOE announced it will likely issue two waste-shipping contracts potentially
worth $80 million to $100 million over five years to replace contracts expiring
in 2012.
According to a DOE release, WIPP receives roughly 25
to 35 shipments per week. The indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity shipping contracts
are for one base year with four one-year option periods. The deadline for
companies to respond to the request for proposals is May 17.