The US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has approved a subsequent licence renewal for NextEra Energy Resources’ Point Beach Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) units 1 and 2, extending their operations to 2050 and 2053, respectively. The approval follows a rigorous, multi-year application process.
“This approval ensures that Wisconsin’s only nuclear power plant will continue to provide safe, reliable, and low-cost energy for generations to come,” said Brian Bolster, NextEra President and CEO. “We are proud that Point Beach will remain an integral part of Wisconsin’s energy future and a vital contributor to the state and local economies.”
Thad Edmonds, Point Beach Site Vice President, added: “This approval represents the culmination of extensive efforts to meet and exceed regulatory expectations. Our team demonstrated exceptional dedication and expertise throughout the application process, ensuring Point Beach will continue its vital role in supplying reliable electricity to Wisconsin.”
Point Beach’s two 625 MWe pressurised water reactors began operation in 1970 and 1973. They were originally licensed by the NRC for 40 years, with both units receiving a first licence renewal in 2005 – extending operations to 2030 for unit 1 and 2033 for unit 2.
