The US Department of Energy is seeking public input on a US$6bn civil nuclear credit programme, which aims to support the continued operation of the country's nuclear reactors. The programme will allow owners or operators of nuclear power plants to apply for certification and competitively bid on credits to help support their continued operations. Under the law, applications must prove that the reactor will close for economic reasons and demonstrate that closure will lead to a rise in air pollution. In addition, nuclear plants must received a reasonable assurance from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) that they will continue to operate safely. Credits will be allocated over a four-year period beginning on the date of selection.There are 93 nuclear reactors in operation in the United States for a total capacity of 100 GW.