Constellation to Restart Three Mile Island Nuclear Reactor in Microsoft Deal

Constellation recently announced a significant partnership with Microsoft to restore the Unit 1 nuclear reactor at Three Mile Island, a site notorious for its past nuclear meltdown. This 20-year agreement aims to rejuvenate the reactor, which will be renamed the Christopher M. Crane Clean Energy Center.

The project promises to generate 835 megawatts of carbon-free energy, create approximately 3,400 jobs, and provide over $3 billion in tax revenue for local and state governments, according to Constellation’s statement.

Joe Dominguez, the CEO and President of Constellation, expressed optimism about the initiative. He pointed out that the plant was once known for its safety and reliability before it was prematurely shut down due to economic issues. Dominguez believes that the revamped reactor will not only serve as a crucial energy source but also contribute to Pennsylvania’s economy.

As part of this initiative, Constellation plans to focus on the new mission of the facility, emphasizing sustainability and economic growth. Microsoft’s involvement represents a key step in its broader efforts to assist in decarbonizing the energy grid, as articulated by Bobby Hollis, Microsoft’s Vice President of Energy. Hollis stated that the collaboration seeks to develop carbon-free energy sources to ensure the grid’s capacity and reliability.

It’s important to note that while the Unit 1 reactor is independent, it is located near the shuttered Unit 2, which has been out of operation since a significant incident in 1979. That reactor faced a meltdown due to overheating, leading to a nuclear emergency that necessitated the evacuation of thousands. Although subsequent radioactive releases did not show detectable health risks, Unit 2 was never reactivated, and cleanup efforts extended well into the 1990s.

Despite the positive outlook from Constellation and state officials, opposition exists. Groups such as “No Nukes Pennsylvania” and “Three Mile Island Alert” voiced their concerns against the reactor’s restart. They argue that the project could burden taxpayers with significant costs and warn that history could repeat itself if the reactor goes back online.

On the other hand, Governor Josh Shapiro has shown his support for the initiative. In a statement, he emphasized that the Crane Clean Energy Center will leverage existing infrastructure responsibly under the oversight of state and federal regulators. He highlighted the initiative’s potential to create thousands of energy jobs and further cement Pennsylvania’s status as a leader in the energy sector.

Before the reactor at Three Mile Island can resume operations, it must receive approval from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. This approval process will involve a thorough safety and environmental review, along with necessary permits from relevant state and local authorities.

An impact study conducted by the Pennsylvania Building & Construction Trades Council revealed optimistic projections for the project. The study, performed by The Brattle Group, estimated that restarting the Unit 1 reactor could contribute an additional $16 billion to Pennsylvania’s economy while generating 3,400 direct and indirect jobs.

Rob Bair, the president of the Pennsylvania State Building and Construction Trades Council, expressed confidence in the project’s potential to create “family-sustaining jobs” for years to come. He also stressed that it will position Pennsylvania as a leader in attracting clean energy jobs that will define the industry’s future.