US is reviving shuttered nuclear plants to meet growing electricity demand and to power data centers

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has allocated up to $4.42 billion in loans for three nuclear plant restarts, totaling 2,250 megawatts. Palisades (Michigan) received $1.52 billion, Crane (Pennsylvania) $1 billion, and Duane Arnold (Iowa) up to $1.9 billion. Constellation and NextEra Energy are involved in these projects, with power purchase agreements signed by Microsoft and Google.

Virginia cities Alexandria and Arlington are engaging in the state's review of a proposed $67 billion acquisition of Dominion Energy by NextEra Energy. The deal, if approved, would create the world's largest regulated electric utility, serving 10 million customers. Local officials are addressing concerns about electric bills, service reliability, jobs, and clean energy. The Virginia State Corporation Commission is accepting public comments and will make a final decision in early 2027.

The U.S. is investing $4.4B to restart three shuttered nuclear plants (Palisades, Crane, Duane Arnold) to meet rising electricity demand, including from Big Tech data centers. The plants closed due to high costs but now have contracts with tech firms. The Energy Department aims to restore 2.25GW of power, enough for 2M homes. Experts debate the risks and benefits of these restarts.

NextEra Energy CEO John Ketchum testified before South Carolina lawmakers regarding a $67B merger with Dominion Energy. He pledged to maintain affordable rates and job growth, but faced skepticism over past actions and the deal's pace. The merger requires regulatory approval in multiple states, with a final vote scheduled for January.

Amazon and Constellation agreed to a 20-year deal to increase output at the Calvert Cliffs nuclear plant by 190 MW, with Amazon committing to 690 MW. This supports $3B in upgrades and long-term operation, benefiting local jobs and economy.

NextEra Energy's $67B acquisition of Dominion Energy faces scrutiny in South Carolina. Lawmakers pressed for details on bill credits and jobs. The deal, requiring regulatory approvals, would create the world's largest regulated utility. NextEra offered $10/month credits for South Carolina customers for 2 years. The Public Service Commission will review the proposal, with a decision expected in early 2027.