Xcel Energy’s Monticello Nuclear Plant Receives Federal Approval to Extend Operations

(KNSI) — Xcel Energy has received federal approval to extend the operation of its carbon-free Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant through 2050.

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission renewed the plant’s operating license, saying it will ensure nuclear energy remains a cornerstone of Xcel Energy’s strategy to achieve 100% carbon-free electricity. The utility says the NRC’s license renewal followed a comprehensive multi-year review, including inspections and audits to ensure the plant meets safety, environmental, and operational standards.

State regulatory approval will also be required to align with the federal extension. Xcel already received the go ahead from the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission to operate the plant through 2040 and plans to seek state approval for the additional ten years covered by the federal extension.

“The Monticello plant has long been an essential source of clean, safe and reliable energy, powering more than 500,000 homes annually in the Upper Midwest,” said Bob Frenzel, Xcel Energy chairman, president and CEO. “As the only 24/7 carbon-free energy source we have, nuclear energy will be key to accelerating our journey to a clean energy future while ensuring we also meet the unprecedented growth in our customers’ demand for electricity.”

“For over 50 years, we have maintained, invested in and improved the Monticello plant to ensure it can continue to deliver for the communities we serve,” said Chris Church, chief nuclear officer at Xcel Energy. “By extending operations at the plant, we are carrying this commitment forward, and at the same time renewing our investment in the community of Monticello and the surrounding region.”

Beyond generating electricity for half a million homes, the Monticello plant is a major contributor to the local economy as the largest employer and taxpayer in the area, according to a company press release. Along with the Prairie Island Nuclear Generating Plant, Monticello supplies nearly a quarter of the electricity Xcel Energy customers use in the Upper Midwest.

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