Southwest Michigan lawmakers are reacting with optimism to news this week that Palisades owner Holtec International has reached a power purchase agreement with Wolverine Power Cooperative.
The move is an important step as Holtec seeks to reopen the nuclear power plant in Van Buren County.
State Representative Pauline Wendzel says the “announcement brings us one step closer to making history – becoming the first state to successfully re-power a non-operational nuclear power plant.” She adds, “Michigan has an opportunity to secure our legacy as a global leader in technology, discovery, and innovation. We’re at the doorstep of doing something truly remarkable, and today’s news is certainly welcome and a great step forward.”
State Representative Joey Andrews calls the power purchase agreement “incredibly welcome news.” He says reopening Palisades, if it happens, will return hundreds of good-paying jobs to the region.
Also, Congressman Bill Huizenga says the partnership “completes another important step in the effort to restore clean, carbon-free energy production at the Palisades Nuclear Facility.”
