NextEra considers restarting Iowa nuclear plant amid rising demand for carbon-free energy

NextEra Energy is considering restarting a nuclear plant in Iowa due to increasing demand for carbon-free energy. The Duane Arnold Energy Center ceased operations in 2020 after 45 years. NextEra’s CEO stated a thorough review of risks is needed to assess the feasibility of restarting the reactor. The potential restart could meet market demand, but the company would require a risk-free approach. The plant was initially planned for retirement in late 2020 but closed two months earlier due to storm damage. Interest in nuclear is growing as the US faces a surge in power demand. Electricity demand is rising, and there is a push to accelerate the buildout of renewable energy. Utility executives argue that nuclear and natural gas are necessary for grid reliability. The push for new nuclear has faced both support and criticism. The tech sector, particularly data centers, have shown interest in nuclear power. The US has the largest nuclear fleet globally, and the Biden administration has provided tax credits to prevent more reactors from shutting down.