Constellation (Nasdaq: CEG) announced a 20-year power purchase agreement with Microsoft, facilitating the launch of the Crane Clean Energy Center (CCEC) and the restart of Three Mile Island Unit 1. This nuclear plant, which was renowned for safety and reliability, was shut down five years ago for economic reasons. The agreement aligns with Microsoft’s goal to match the energy used by its PJM data centers with carbon-free power.
Joe Dominguez, Constellation’s president and CEO, highlighted the importance of nuclear energy in supporting industries like data centers that require consistent, carbon-free power. He emphasized that the restart of Unit 1, now renamed the Crane Clean Energy Center, would bring economic benefits to Pennsylvania, including job creation and clean energy production. The facility is named in honor of Chris Crane, Constellation’s former CEO, who was a strong advocate for nuclear energy.
To prepare for the restart, significant investments will be made in upgrading plant components, including the turbine, generator, and control systems. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission must approve the restart following safety and environmental reviews. Constellation is also seeking a license renewal to extend operations until at least 2054, with an expected relaunch in 2028.
Microsoft’s VP of Energy, Bobby Hollis, described the agreement as a major step toward decarbonizing the grid in support of Microsoft’s carbon-negative goal. An economic study by The Brattle Group projects that the CCEC will create 3,400 jobs and add over 800 megawatts of carbon-free electricity to the grid, generating significant economic impact for Pennsylvania.
Constellation has committed an additional $1 million over the next five years to support local workforce development and community needs. The company has a long history of engagement with the Middletown area, with public safety remaining its top priority.
Rob Bair, president of the Pennsylvania State Building & Construction Trades Council, praised the project’s potential to create clean energy jobs. Governor Josh Shapiro emphasized the plant’s role in providing reliable, carbon-free electricity and strengthening Pennsylvania’s position as a national energy leader. The local community also expressed strong support for the restart, with a recent poll showing broad backing for nuclear energy.
Dr. Michael Goff, Acting Assistant Secretary of the Department of Energy’s Office of Nuclear Energy, affirmed the importance of always-on, carbon-free nuclear power in addressing climate change and rising energy demands. Congressman Scott Perry lauded the economic benefits the CCEC will bring, including the creation of 3,400 jobs.
Constellation originally purchased TMI Unit 1 in 1999, and before its 2019 closure, it generated 837 megawatts of electricity—enough to power over 800,000 homes. The plant maintained a high capacity factor of 96.3% and employed over 600 full-time workers, in addition to seasonal contractors.
The plant’s renaming honors Chris Crane, a titan of the nuclear industry and former CEO of Constellation’s parent company. Crane was instrumental in promoting the environmental and economic benefits of nuclear power and played a key role in rebuilding public support for the technology.
Various industry leaders and local officials have voiced their support for the Crane Clean Energy Center, recognizing the project’s potential to create jobs, drive investment, and help the U.S. meet its climate and energy independence goals.
