In a groundbreaking decision, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has approved Holtec International’s request to reclassify the Palisades Nuclear Plant in Covert Township, Michigan, from decommissioning back to operational status. This marks the first time in American history that a nuclear plant previously shut down has been authorized to restart. With this approval, Palisades is now cleared to accept new nuclear fuel and resume full operational planning, including assigning licensed reactor operators to active duty.
Rigorous Safety Protocols and Restart Measures Underway
As the Palisades facility moves toward reactivation, Holtec is undertaking an extensive restart program. This includes thorough system inspections, repairs to the steam generator, and replacement of reactor vessel components. The process is being closely monitored by federal regulators, including the Nuclear Safety Review Board and the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO). According to Holtec officials, safety remains the top priority. Before the plant can be fully restarted, it must meet stringent NRC requirements through ongoing oversight and compliance checks.
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Powering Michigan and Driving Economic Revitalization
Once operational, Palisades is expected to generate over 800 megawatts of carbon-free baseload power, supplying clean electricity to more than 800,000 homes across Michigan. Furthermore, the restart will bring substantial economic benefits to the region. Approximately 600 permanent jobs will be supported by Holtec, and an additional 1,000 skilled workers will be involved during maintenance cycles. The site is also being eyed for future developments, including the introduction of Holtec’s next-generation SMR-300 small modular reactors by 2030, signaling a broader commitment to America’s energy transformation.
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A Blueprint for America’s Nuclear Energy Future
Originally launched in 1971, the Palisades plant was decommissioned in 2022. However, a renewed vision led by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and supported by $150 million in state funding and a $1.5 billion conditional loan from the U.S. Department of Energy, paved the way for its revival. As the first successfully restarted nuclear plant in the country, Palisades could become a model for others. Its return represents a critical turning point in U.S. nuclear policy, reinforcing the role of clean nuclear energy in achieving energy independence, reducing carbon emissions, and revitalizing local economies through long-term infrastructure investment.
Project Overview
Historic First: Palisades is the first U.S. nuclear plant to move from decommissioning back to an active operating license.
NRC Approval: The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission approved Holtec’s request to restart the plant in July 2024.
Restart Process: The plant will undergo inspections, system testing, and safety reviews before resuming full operations.
Clean Energy Output: Once active, Palisades will generate 800+ megawatts of carbon-free electricity.
Power Supply: The plant will power over 800,000 homes in Michigan.
Economic Impact: 600 permanent jobs will be retained, plus 1,000 jobs during maintenance cycles.
Federal Support: Holtec secured a conditional $1.5 billion federal loan for the restart.
State Support: Michigan provided $150 million in funding to back the reopening.
Future Plans: Holtec aims to deploy SMR-300 small modular reactors on-site by 2030.
Energy Security: The restart reinforces U.S. goals for grid reliability and nuclear energy independence
