ANNAPOLIS, Md. — The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has upheld its decision to deny a license for a French company to build a third nuclear reactor at Maryland’s Calvert Cliffs.

The NRC released its order Monday denying a petition of review filed by UniStar Nuclear Operating Services, LLC.

In August, the NRC said it could not issue a license because the applicants are foreign-owned. The NRC noted rules of the 1954 Atomic Energy Act in its ruling.

The NRC noted Monday the length of time since the agency first issued substantive guidance on the foreign ownership portion of the law. The NRC is directing staff to review issues relating to foreign ownership and recommend whether the commission should consider modifications.

Monday’s order also notes the company is still seeking a U.S. partner.

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