In an unprecedented move, the Palisades nuclear reactor, located in Covert Township, Mich., is slated to reopen despite being closed since 2022. Previously owned by Entergy Corp., the reactor generated electricity for over fifty years. Sold to Holtec International in June 2022, the reactor has secured almost two billion dollars in funding in their reopening effort, including $300 million in state funding and a $1.5 billion loan from the U.S. Department of Energy. There are concerns, however, that the reactor is unsafe for reopening. Alan Blind, a former engineering director at Palisades from 2006-2013, suggested the reactor was allowed to fall short of modern safety standards by the NRC as it was nearing retirement. Blind warned that certain important issues will not be addressed prior to reopening, including unsafe insulation on cooling pipes and inadequate protection from fires and earthquakes. Both Holtec and the NRC claim that proper safety measures will be undertaken to ensure secure reopening. An NRC spokesperson insisted that it will investigate concerns raised by Blind while Holtec claims Palisades will undergo “extensive inspections, testing, maintenance, system, and equipment upgrades.” Palisades would be the first U.S. reactor to reopen after beginning decommissioning.
— Reuters, Aug. 2; Bridge Michigan, Jan. 31, 2024
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