Michigan Residents Demand Environmental Impact Study to Safeguard Community Before Palisades Nuclear Plant Reopening

The Palisades Nuclear Generating Station in Michigan might soon be the first nuclear power plant in the U.S. to reopen after a shutdown. In 2022, plans were made to decommission the facility, but with a $1.5 billion loan from the U.S. Department of Energy, the owners have decided to restart operations.

Recently, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) released a draft environmental assessment stating that reopening the plant would have “no significant impact” on the surrounding environment. The study compared the plant’s status now, as decommissioned, to its previous operations, noting that resuming power would only impact previously disturbed areas and not alter coastal regions in any notable way.

Built in 1971, Palisades is one of the oldest nuclear power plants in the country, located on the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan. It covers 432 acres and is surrounded by natural habitats and state park land.

Local residents and activist groups are voicing their concerns. They want the NRC and Holtec International, the plant’s owner, to conduct a more detailed environmental review. During a recent meeting, organizations like Beyond Nuclear and the Sierra Club argued for a more thorough environmental impact statement, as they believe the current assessment is insufficient.

Michigan’s Governor Gretchen Whitmer has promoted the restoration of Palisades, calling it important for the state’s clean energy goals. With new climate laws requiring 80% clean energy by 2035, bringing Palisades back could generate 800 megawatts of power—enough electricity for around 800,000 homes. Dan Scripps, chair of the Michigan Public Service Commission, highlighted that this addition would help Michigan move towards its sustainability targets.

However, some residents push for a shift towards renewable energy sources like solar and wind. They argue that investing in nuclear power is old-fashioned and risky. Jan O’Connell from the Michigan Sierra Club stated that nuclear energy, while low in carbon emissions, produces radioactive waste that can take millions of years to decompose, posing long-term risks to health and the environment.

The state has allocated a significant amount of money—$300 million—to restart the plant. The energy produced will be sold to companies like Wolverine Power Cooperative in Michigan and Hoosier Energy in neighboring states. With support from both Democratic and Republican leaders, nuclear energy is gaining new traction, particularly with recent federal incentives that make it more affordable.

The NRC will issue its final decision on whether the plant can reopen between May and July. Meanwhile, the public can submit comments regarding the environmental assessment until March 3. Scripps noted the ongoing efforts to convince the NRC to take a closer look at environmental impacts before moving forward.