OMNI Features｜Prairie Island Nuclear Plant Advances Toward 20 More Years of Operations

Xcel Energy has secured approval from the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission to extend operations at the Prairie Island nuclear plant into the early 2050s. The decision marks a pivotal step in ensuring reliable, carbon-free power across the Upper Midwest. Company leaders emphasized nuclear energy's role as the only 24/7 carbon-free resource available today, critical to meeting rising electricity demand and supporting regional energy security.

The Commission also approved increased spent fuel storage at the site, allowing Xcel to prepare for a 20-year federal license extension request in 2026. That review, conducted by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, is expected to take up to two years and will focus on long-term safety and reliability. Prairie Island's two reactors currently generate 1,100 megawatts—enough to power more than one million homes. Their existing licenses expire in 2033 and 2034.

Beyond energy supply, Prairie Island serves as a major economic driver. The facility represents 42% of Red Wing's tax base and sustains hundreds of well-paying jobs in Goodhue County. Local officials praised the approval for safeguarding employment and sustaining community contributions from Xcel employees.

Xcel Energy operates both Prairie Island and Monticello nuclear plants, recently extending Monticello's license through 2050. The company continues to return approximately $250 million in federal nuclear production tax credits to customers annually, demonstrating tangible value in both affordability and energy security.

Reference: Xcel Energy Newsroom