The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has been accused in a new lawsuit of hindering the nuclear energy industry, particularly smaller reactors, by imposing extensive time and cost licensing requirements.

The federal government has given Xcel Energy permission to continue operating its nuclear power plant in Monticello for another two decades. On Monday, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission

The U-S Nuclear Regulatory Commission is extending the operating license of the Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant for an additional 20 years.

The Monticello nuclear power plant gained federal clearance to operate through 2050 — pending approval from state regulators — extending the life of one of two such facilities in Minnesota.

Xcel Energy has secured a 20-year license extension from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for its Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant, with the extended operation now awaiting approval from state regulators.

Monticello’s nuclear power plant will continue to provide the region with energy while helping to support the local economy over the next two decades, pending state sanction.