BRAIDWOOD, Ill. – The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) approved Braidwood Generating Station’s license renewal application this morning. Years of hard work on the rigorous renewal process have culminated in the facility’s ability to operate until 2046 for Unit 1 and 2047 for Unit 2.
“Today’s announcement is great news for the state and regional economy,” said Braidwood Station Site Vice President Marri Marchionda-Palmer. “In addition to the vast economic impact, it also allows us to continue producing safe, reliable, carbon-free electricity for the state of Illinois for decades to come.”
In a 2014 report by the Nuclear Energy Institute, Exelon Generation’s nuclear fleet’s total economic output impact on the state of Illinois is estimated at $8.9 billion – of which $1.7 billion is attributed to Braidwood Station alone. The study cites nearly 20 economic sectors benefitting from Braidwood’s continued operation, including construction, manufacturing, transportation and retail trade, among others.
“Our long-term relationship with Exelon and Braidwood Generating Station has been a large part of the economic and social growth of our city,” said James Vehrs, mayor of Braidwood. “Exelon has promoted job growth, neighborhood stability and a steady influx of tax dollars to our schools and other taxpayer-funded services.
“Their positive impact will serve us well for many years to come. Exelon and the Braidwood Generating Station continue to be both great neighbors and fantastic partners, helping the city as we continue to prosper and grow.”
Nuclear power is an essential part of the energy mix in Illinois and is needed for the state to comply with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean Power plan to reduce carbon emissions. Braidwood Station, along with Exelon’s five other nuclear power plants, generate nearly half of Illinois’ electricity and about 90 percent of the state’s carbon-free electricity.
Braidwood Generating Station generates nearly 2,500 megawatts of electricity, enough for more than two million homes. Over the last 10 years Braidwood Station has operated at 97.3 percent of capacity, a key measure of reliability and a figure far ahead of other sources of electricity generation.
To learn more about the vital role nuclear plays in supplying electricity to Illinois and the tremendous benefits it provides to families and communities, visit
www.nuclearpowersillinois.com.
