US-based Holtec International is leading a bold nuclear energy initiative with plans to generate 10 gigawatts (GW) of clean power using small modular reactors (SMRs). The company will start by deploying its SMR-300 reactors at the Palisades nuclear plant site in Covert Township, Michigan, targeting 2029–2030 for the first unit’s commercial launch.
The SMR-300 is a passively safe, pressurized light water reactor, each unit capable of producing 300 megawatts of emission-free electricity — enough to power 300,000 homes. This advanced Generation III+ technology relies on gravity for its safety systems, earning it the “walk-away safe” label.
Holtec is also working to restart the previously decommissioned 800 MW Palisades plant, which was shut down in 2022. The co-location of SMRs with existing infrastructure is expected to reduce costs significantly.
Looking ahead, Holtec plans to expand its SMR fleet across North America, including up to four reactors at the Oyster Creek site in New Jersey and a 4 GW deployment in Utah and Wyoming. The expansion is supported by ongoing research at Idaho National Laboratory and recent pro-nuclear legislation in Utah.
In collaboration with Hyundai Engineering & Construction, Holtec’s “Mission 2030” program aims to position the U.S. as a global leader in modular nuclear energy, setting a benchmark with the Palisades site as its flagship project.