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Pennsylvania’s Crane Clean Energy Center Set for 2027 Restart

Workers gathered at the Crane Clean Energy Center to celebrate the restart plans.

News Summary

The Crane Clean Energy Center in Pennsylvania is preparing for a potential restart by 2027, with over 400 employees in attendance for a celebration. Supported by a recent interconnection approval from PJM and a 20-year power purchase agreement with Microsoft, the facility aims to create 3,400 jobs and inject $16 billion into the state’s economy. With strong public support for nuclear energy and ongoing enhancements, the center is poised to play a critical role in Pennsylvania’s transition to sustainable energy.

Pennsylvania is poised to celebrate a new chapter in its energy landscape as the Crane Clean Energy Center prepares for a potential restart by 2027. Over 400 employees from Constellation, along with local building trades members, gathered at the site on June 25, 2025, to commemorate the milestone in Pennsylvania’s promise of reliable, emissions-free nuclear energy. This comeback indicates a significant shift toward more sustainable energy practices in the state.

The restart plan received a boost with an early interconnection request approval from PJM, the regional transmission organization, facilitated by a letter from Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro. This expedited approval is crucial as it lays the groundwork for the operational resurgence of the former Three Mile Island Unit 1.

Constellation’s leadership highlighted the anticipated economic impact of the facility’s reopening, projecting the creation of 3,400 direct and indirect jobs and an injection of more than $16 billion into Pennsylvania’s GDP. Additionally, a recent study suggests that the plant’s restart could contribute over $3 billion in state and federal taxes, underscoring its potential role in the state’s economy.

The partnership with Microsoft also marks a significant advancement, as the tech giant has entered into a 20-year power purchase agreement with Constellation. This agreement ensures that Microsoft will utilize the facility’s carbon-free electricity, aligning with the growing trend towards sustainable energy among corporations.

Current staffing levels at the Crane Clean Energy Center are promising, with the site being more than 64% staffed, employing nearly 400 full-time workers. An additional 58 hires are anticipated in the near future as operations ramp up. The facility has made strides in refurbishing its infrastructure, including enhancements to the training center and control room simulator, with significant technical milestones already achieved. Major systems such as the diesel generator and turbines have passed recent inspections, paving the way for operational readiness.

As part of regulatory adherence, Constellation has submitted key licensing amendments to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) while maintaining compliance with safety standards. The facility is also preparing to submit a license renewal application, which could extend the operational license until 2054.

The leadership in Pennsylvania recognizes the importance of the Crane Clean Energy Center not just for its economic impact but for its role in enhancing the reliability of the state’s energy grid. Enhancements in artificial intelligence are also set to be integrated into the facility’s management to optimize operations, further ensuring efficiency and safety.

Public sentiment around the restart of the Crane Clean Energy Center is largely favorable, with over 70% of Pennsylvania residents expressing support for nuclear energy as a clean power source. This strong public backing reflects a broader trend toward embracing nuclear energy solutions as a way to combat climate change and fulfill energy demands sustainably.

In addition to the operational focus, Constellation is committed to community engagement, pledging $1 million over five years for local contributions, with $185,000 already provided in 2025. The revitalization of the Crane Clean Energy Center is not just a pivotal moment for Pennsylvania but is also positioned as a key milestone for America’s nuclear energy sector, emphasizing its vital role in the country’s cleaner energy production landscape.