Middletown, Pennsylvania – Constellation Energy is moving forward with an unprecedented $1.6 billion plan to restart Unit 1 of the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant, aiming to supply power to Microsoft's burgeoning data centers. The plant, which ceased operations in 2019, is now anticipated to resume power generation as early as 2027, a year ahead of its initial 2028 target, following a 20-year power purchase agreement with the technology giant. This significant development was highlighted in recent discussions and public announcements, including a tweet from "💎 ISODOPE" on August 9, 2025, signaling a comprehensive overview of the restart.
The ambitious project involves substantial investments to restore the facility, which Constellation plans to rename the Crane Clean Energy Center. Company officials, including CEO Joe Dominguez, have stated that the physical plant is in good condition, requiring modifications to systems like the turbine, generator, and cooling systems. This initiative marks one of the first instances of a shuttered U.S. nuclear reactor being brought back online, signifying a shift in energy strategy to meet growing electricity demands, particularly from the artificial intelligence sector.
The restart process is currently undergoing rigorous regulatory review by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), including public meetings to address community concerns. Residents of Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, have voiced anxieties regarding safety protocols, environmental impacts, and the plant's reliance on the Susquehanna River for cooling, recalling the partial meltdown of Unit 2 in 1979. Conversely, local leaders and some community members welcome the economic benefits, including the creation of hundreds of full-time jobs and the stimulation of the regional economy.
Constellation is actively pursuing licensing modifications and permits, with a goal to extend the plant's operating license potentially until 2054. The company has ordered key components, restored water systems, and conducted infrastructure inspections. The accelerated timeline reflects the urgent demand for reliable, low-carbon energy, with the plant expected to provide 835 megawatts of electricity, enough to power a significant portion of Philadelphia's homes. This endeavor underscores a broader trend of re-evaluating nuclear power's role in the clean energy transition.