Constellation Energy allocates $800m to increase output at Braidwood and Byron nuclear power plants

Constellation Energy, a US-based carbon-free energy producer, will invest $800 million in two Illinois nuclear power plants – Braidwood and Byron to increase their clean energy output.

The investment proposal follows Constellation Energy’s announcement of substantial development at its clean hydrogen project at the Nine Mile Point Generating Station in upstate New York, and the start of work on operating license renewals at the Clinton and Dresden nuclear power plants in Illinois.

The proposed investment for the Braidwood and Byron nuclear power projects will be used to replace their main turbines with high efficiency units, adding around 135 carbon-free megawatts.

Joe Dominguez — Constellation Energy president and CEO said: “These investments in our world class nuclear fleet will allow us to generate more zero-carbon energy with the same amount of fuel and land, and that’s a win for the economy, the environment and Illinois families and businesses who rely on our clean energy.

“These projects will help create family-sustaining jobs and are a direct result of state and federal policies that recognize the incredible value of nuclear energy in addressing the climate crisis while keeping our grid secure and reliable.”

Constellation Energy allocates $800m to increase output at Braidwood and Byron nuclear power plants

The upgrades at the two nuclear power projects are anticipated to generate the additional always-on, carbon-free power, which is the equivalent of taking 171,000 gas-powered vehicles off the road a year or adding 216 wind turbines to the grid, according to Environmental Protection Agency data.

Dave Rhoades — Constellation Energy chief nuclear officer said: “It is gratifying to see new long-term projects at our nuclear facilities getting the green light.

“This is an exciting time for our industry as we continue our investment in the future of our plants.”

Constellation Energy assumes to enhance output at the stations as early as 2026, with the full raised output attainable by 2029.

Braidwood and Byron were among the Illinois nuclear power generation facilities preserved from premature retirement by the passage of the state Climate and Equitable Jobs Act in 2021.