A report from WQOW-TV:

Eau Claire (WQOW) – Minnesota regulators have approved a measure to allow Xcel Energy to increase the amount of radioactive waste.

Excel Energy requested to expand its nuclear waste plant near the Western Wisconsin border at Red Wing. The utility will spend roughly $600 million to upgrade the plant to handle higher pressures and temperatures and increase its output. The plan also calls for storage of 98 casks on a concrete pad next to the plant. The plant is located on an island in the middle of the Mississippi River.

Red Wing’s mayor is disappointed with the decision. Now the measure goes to legislators for final approval.