On September 30, the Department of Energy (DOE) finalized a $1.52 billion loan guarantee to Holtec International for the recommissioning of the 800-MW Palisades Nuclear Plant in Covert Township, Michigan. This marks a significant step in reviving nuclear energy in the U.S., as it is the first recommissioning of a nuclear plant in the country.

The loan will facilitate essential inspections, testing, and equipment restoration. The plant, retired by Entergy in May 2022, is slated for recommissioning by the end of 2025, pending approval from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). Upon reopening, Palisades will contribute to the Midcontinent Independent System Operator’s (MISO) resource mix, providing baseload power through 2051.

In a related development, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) awarded Wolverine Power Cooperative $650 million and Hoosier Energy $675 million to secure additional power from Palisades, further highlighting the plant's importance in regional energy supply.

The Biden administration's loan is part of a broader initiative to sustain the nuclear industry, which supplies over 20% of U.S. electricity. As the energy landscape evolves, maintaining existing nuclear facilities is critical for achieving decarbonization goals.

Source: powermag.com