Reopening of Three Mile Island: A New Era for UA Members and Nuclear Energy

Empowering UA Members Through Historic Legislation
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), made possible by the Vice President Kamala Harris' tie-breaking vote, has opened doors for unprecedented opportunities for United Association members. This landmark legislation is more than a political victory; it's a catalyst for job creation and economic growth for our members.
Key Provisions Benefiting UA Members:
- All-of-the-Above Energy Approach: The IRA supports a diverse energy portfolio, ensuring continued investment in traditional energy sources alongside new technologies.
- Production Tax Credits for Nuclear Energy: Significant tax incentives have enabled the reopening of nuclear facilities like Three Mile Island, Palisades, and Diablo Canyon.
- Labor Protections: Strong labor provisions such as Davis-Bacon prevailing wage requirements and the use of registered apprenticeships ensure that jobs created are good-paying and secure for UA members.
- Investment in Energy Projects: Billions in funding for various energy projects translate to millions of man-hours for UA members.
Three Mile Island Reopens: A Beacon of Job Creation for UA Members
Constellation Energy's decision to reopen the Three Mile Island nuclear plant is a direct result of the IRA's incentives. This project is more than just an energy initiative; it's a massive employment generator for UA members.
- 3,400 Jobs Created: The reopening will create thousands of jobs for our skilled members, offering new opportunities for good-paying jobs.
- Economic Boost: An estimated $16 billion added to Pennsylvania's GDP and over $3 billion in state and federal taxes.
- Long-term Employment: With the plant expected to operate until 2054, this means decades of stable employment for our UA members.
Microsoft Partnership: Driving Demand for Skilled Labor
The reopened plant will exclusively power Microsoft's data centers, which are also beneficiaries of federal investments under the Biden-Harris Administration.
- Data Center Investments Nationwide: The administration is investing in data center projects across the country, creating thousands of union construction jobs and permanent positions.
- $3.3 Billion Investment in Racine, Wisconsin: Microsoft's new AI data center project will create 2,300 union construction jobs and 2,000 permanent jobs, further amplifying opportunities for UA members.
The Role of Nuclear Energy in Our Future
The Biden-Harris Administration recognizes nuclear energy as a vital component of an all-of-the-above energy strategy, ensuring energy security and job creation for UA members.
- Modernizing and Expanding Nuclear Fleet: Significant loans and credits are being directed to nuclear facilities to ensure they remain operational and safe.
- Supporting Advanced Reactors: Funding for Advanced Reactor Demonstration Programs and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) opens new avenues for employment and technological growth for UA members.
Conclusion: A Victory for UA Members and Energy Security
The reopening of Three Mile Island symbolizes more than the revival of a nuclear plant; it's a testament to what can be achieved when government policy aligns with industry needs and the interests of UA members.
- Empowering UA Members: Strong labor protections ensure that the jobs created are not just numerous but also fair and rewarding for our members.
- Economic Growth: The combined investments in energy and technology sectors stimulate the economy, benefiting communities where our UA members live and work.
- Sustainable Future: By focusing on an all-of-the-above energy approach, we are contributing to energy security while securing the livelihoods of our UA members.