Xcel Energy has received significant support for its clean energy objectives with the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission‘s recent renewal of the Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant’s operating license. The plant’s operational life is now extended until 2050 with an additional 20 years of authorization. Although state officials must approve the extension, the company’s efforts to maintain the carbon-free electricity source depend heavily on this federal ruling.
Nuclear Energy Critical to Xcel Energy’s Clean Energy Vision
Chris Church, chief nuclear officer at Xcel Energy said, “For over 50 years, we have maintained, invested in and improved the Monticello plant to ensure it can continue to deliver for the communities we serve.”
He added, “By extending operations at the plant, we are carrying this commitment forward, and at the same time renewing our investment in the community of Monticello and the surrounding region.”
License renewal for the plant involves a highly complicated multi-year process where NRC conducted severe inspections, audits, and reviews to determine if the plant has safety, environmental, and operating standards.
State-Level Approval Pending for Full Extension
Although the NRC has approved a 20-year extension for the plant’s operation, state regulators must also approve this continuation. The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission has already approved extension until 2040. But Xcel will return to the PUC someday and request permission for extra 10 years that will enable them to operate the plant until 2050.
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Commitment to Community and Regional Economy
Along with powering half a million homes, Monticello is a key employer and tax generator for the community. Paired with Prairie Island Nuclear Generating Plant near Red Wing, MN, Monticello provides close to 25% of all the electricity that the Upper Midwest consumers use to supply Xcel Energy customers.