Nuclear power resurgence planned for three mile island by 2028

In 2025, the United States is experiencing an unprecedented demand for energy, largely driven by the need to support domestic jobs and compete in the AI race against China and Russia. There has been a notable shift in attitudes toward nuclear energy, with Three Mile Island (TMI) in Pennsylvania transitioning from see as unsafe to being viewed positively once more. This revitalization is exemplified by Constellation Energy's plans to restart Reactor Unit One by 2028, doing so in response to the electricity needs of the rapidly growing information technologies sector. Historically, the U.S. nuclear power landscape has experienced significant ups and downs, notably after the partial meltdown at TMI in 1979. The early optimism surrounding nuclear power in the 1950s and 60s gave way to skepticism and concern over safety and waste management. The energy crisis of the Cold War initially spurred an increased interest in nuclear energy, as it was seen as a solution to dwindling fossil fuel resources, but regulatory and operational challenges led to a slowdown in the development of new nuclear plants. The closure of thirteen reactors between 2013 and 2022 further highlighted the challenges facing the industry. In light of this precarious situation, the current focus on renewable energy advancements, driven by corporate interests and national security considerations, has become paramount. By keeping existing tax incentives for nuclear energy in place, the U.S. can promote the necessary investments to revitalize aging plants and attract new builds. With competitors like Russia and China expanding their nuclear capabilities significantly, there is an urgent need for the U.S. to enhance its nuclear energy strategy. The success of this renewed focus on nuclear power at TMI could have wide-reaching implications for energy security, both nationally and globally. As energy demands surge, maintaining grid reliability will be crucial. New investments in nuclear infrastructure will aid in achieving energy independence while reinforcing the nation’s position in international energy markets. The coming years will likely shape the U.S. nuclear energy landscape, potentially altering perceptions of nuclear power and its role in a clean energy future.