Microsoft nuke power deal for Three Mile Island appears to be ahead of schedule

A revamped Three Mile Island nuclear plant could be fueling Microsoft's AI datacenters sooner than first thought, according to Constellation Energy executives. In September 2024, Microsoft signed a 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with Constellation Energy to bring the shuttered TMI Unit-1 reactor — not to be confused …

[Throatwarbler Mangrove]

Hopefully the reactors themselves ...

... aren't running Windows or (see icon).

[Martin an gof]

Not just "refurbishment"

According to Wikipedia decommissioning had already begun and items such as the transformers have already been scrapped. Still, probably a quicker turn-around than new nuclear but given the age of the plant, are there any plans for replacement before the 20 year contract ends?

M.

[MyffyW]

So to recap ... we erect all sorts of societal and regulatory barriers to building a new nuclear power station, with the result that none are built.

But we're happy enough for a 50 year old one to be switched back on?

[edwaleni]

Meanwhile, Exelon, which is part of the PJM ISO has Braidwood #2 running at 15-20% and wants to get PUC permission to shut it down.

[Anonymous Coward]

Wonder if Microsoft will be committed to keep it going if/when the AI bubble goes pop - or someone just finds a less power intensive way to achieve the same level of rubbish?