Holtec International is pushing to reopen the Palisades Nuclear Plant by the end of this year. On Tuesday, the company met with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to request approval for using a sleeving technique to repair damaged steam generators. However, some critics argue that the generators should be replaced entirely.
The NRC has acknowledged that the sleeving repair method is generally considered standard practice. However, due to the plant’s age—30 years old—the agency is proceeding with extra caution. This means a thorough review process will be required before any final decision is made.
Stephen Bloom, an NRC branch chief, highlighted the challenges of the proposed timeline. “This is a very aggressive schedule,” Bloom said during the meeting. “Even though you’re following a precedent, it’s not exactly the same because it involves different materials and types of sleeving. We need all the information from the start, and we may need to visit different sites to inspect testing and materials. All of this will add to an already tight schedule.”
Holtec is urging the NRC to make a decision by August. The company has emphasized that safety for both people and the environment remains its top priority.
The debate over whether to repair or replace the steam generators continues as the NRC evaluates the best path forward for the aging plant.
