(LANSING) - Plans to restart a shuttered nuclear power plant in southwest Michigan are moving forward, with approvals secured to revive the Palisades facility and pursue new reactor construction, according to ABC 7 Detroit.
The Palisades Nuclear Plant in Covert Township, which closed in 2022 after decades of operation, is being refurbished by Holtec International. If successful, it would become the first decommissioned nuclear plant in the United States to return to service.
Holtec is also seeking federal approval to build two small modular reactors at the site, a technology supporters say could provide reliable, low-carbon electricity with lower costs than traditional plants.
Michigan officials have backed the project as part of efforts to meet rising energy demand and clean energy goals. However, critics cite concerns about safety, nuclear waste and construction expenses.
Legal challenges are pending, and the timeline for full operation remains uncertain.