As with any industrial facility, nuclear power plants have a limited lifespan. With respect to commercial nuclear power plants, these facilities are initially licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for a 20-year period. As reliability improves along with an increasing demand for low-carbon energy, it is likely that the lifespan of nuclear plants can, … Continued

The Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) is a regional planning strategy that focuses on economic development, diversification, and resilience. Taking stock of the economic impact that a nuclear power plant has on not only its host community but also the wider region, is vital in preparing for the inevitable closure of the plant. Who can … Continued

The 52-year-old Palisades Nuclear Power Plant, located in Van Buren County on the scenic shores of Lake Michigan, formally closed in May of 2022 and was sold to the nuclear decommissioning company Holtec. First announced for a 2018 closure, the Palisades decision was amended, extending its operation until 2022. As Palisades provided approximately 600 well-paying … Continued

Taking stock of the current economic state of affairs in any municipality is vital to the management and supported growth of the area. Nuclear communities sometimes become overly reliant on the economic benefits generated by a nuclear plant. These benefits can include a substantial amount of tax revenue and funding for local schools. However, this … Continued

For the majority of Plymouth, Massachusetts’ 400-year history, the town has grown and thrived; now it has its eyes set on the next 400 years. Plymouth—’America’s Hometown’— holds great prominence in American history and the town has long capitalized on that brand to support its economy through tourism and hospitality. Plymouth is also home to … Continued

In nuclear communities, placemaking involves creating distinct spaces and local activities that exist independently of the local nuclear plant. Often, when these plants initially open in communities (much like other major industries), they establish a sense of identity through activities such as job creation, sponsoring community events, supporting local organizations through volunteerism, and other initiatives. … Continued

Determining how many and where new housing units can be built in a community is essential to supporting growth and economic development. Nuclear host communities tend to be located in rural areas, with smaller populations and fewer options for economic diversification. Supporting new, affordable housing is one strategy to diversify a local economy. Focusing development … Continued

Zoning represents the foundation of development in many communities that host nuclear power plants. When planning for economic resilience and diversification, it can be very useful to evaluate your local zoning codes to determine where it is legally viable to construct new housing, businesses, and industry. This process is especially important for nuclear host communities … Continued

An important strategy for economic diversification and development is to attract new business or industry to an area, and this is especially true when redeveloping existing underutilized land. Examples of underutilized land are sites with a condemned, vacant building, a brownfield, or a vacant greenfield. Many times, these underutilized sites present opportunities for profitable economic … Continued