MORRIS, Ill. – Operators at Dresden Generating Station returned Unit 2 to full power Monday, concluding the scheduled refueling and maintenance outage that began Oct. 30. More than 1,500 supplemental workers were on site for several weeks to support the outage, generating a significant economic boost for local businesses.
During the outage, technicians used state-of-the-art technology to upgrade plant equipment to keep the facility generating clean, reliable electricity for another two-year operating cycle. Workers performed more than 9,500 detailed inspections, maintenance activities and equipment upgrades.
Exelon Generation invests millions each year to upgrade its plants, installing new equipment and enhancing components to make the facilities even safer and more efficient. This year’s outage included significant work on the turbine, condenser, and reactor support systems. Technicians also replaced about one-third of the reactor’s fuel.
“The professionals joining us for this refueling outage all share our commitment to safety and operational excellence,” said Dresden Site Vice President Pete Karaba. “Their work will help us continue non-stop operation during the cold winter months ahead, and their presence has given local merchants a nice boost as the holidays arrive.”
Dresden Generating Station is a nuclear power facility located approximately 60 miles southwest of Chicago. The station’s two reactors produce more than 1,800 megawatts of carbon-free electricity at full power – enough to power more than a million homes. Dresden Unit 1, which began commercial operation in 1960 and was retired in 1978, has been designated a Nuclear Historic Landmark by the American Nuclear Society.
Apr 22, 2024
