The project to restart Three Mile Island progresses ahead of schedule
Five months after announcing the restart of Three Mile Island Unit 1 as the Crane Clean Energy Center, Constellation Energy has reached early project milestones ahead of schedule. The 837 MWe pressurized water reactor, retired in 2019 for economic reasons, is undergoing extensive preparations for a safe and efficient return to service.
Since the project’s launch, over 200 full-time employees have been hired. Training and licensing of reactor operators are in progress, and upgrades to the training center and control room simulator are nearly complete. Thousands of plant inspections and equipment enhancements are proceeding as planned, including examinations of the steam generator, main generator, rotor, turbines, feedwater heaters, and condensers.
Over 200 full-time employees have been hired and thousands of inspections and equipment enhancements are proceeding as planned
A significant step forward includes awarding a contract for three new main power transformers, a major equipment investment worth USD 35 million. Constellation has submitted an interconnection request with regional transmission operator PJM to integrate Crane’s power into the grid. The company is also on track with all necessary licensing and regulatory filings with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), which oversees the restart process.
Public engagement remains a priority. The NRC conducted its first public meeting on the project in October, followed by a second meeting in February to review Constellation’s emergency plans. The company’s regulatory filings are available through the NRC.
Public engagement remains a priority, with a first public meeting in October 2024
Constellation President and CEO Joe Dominguez emphasized the project’s significance: “Every new milestone confirms our belief that the Crane Clean Energy Center can be returned to service better than ever, restoring 835 megawatts of carbon-free energy to the regional grid at a critical time for Pennsylvania and our nation.” He highlighted the project’s progress in hiring, training, and infrastructure improvements.
The service will restore 835 MW of carbon-free energy to the regional grid, according to the Constellation CEO
The economic impact of the restart is substantial. A study by the Brattle Group, published last September, estimates the project will create 3,400 direct and indirect jobs, contribute USD 16 billion to Pennsylvania’s GDP, and generate over USD 3 billion in state and federal taxes.
Constellation plans to extend the life of Three Mile Island 1 to at least 2054
At the time of its closure, Three Mile Island Unit 1 held an operating license valid until 2034. Constellation plans to extend its operational life to at least 2054 and expects the plant to be ready for service by 2028. The NRC anticipates completing its review of the plant’s name change application by 23 May.
Source: World Nuclear News
