The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has approved our request to extend the operation of Comanche Peak Nuclear Power Plant through 2053, an additional 20 years beyond its original licenses.  

“With demand for electricity growing at a rapid pace, reliable sources of power, like Comanche Peak, are going to be absolutely essential to meeting that need,” said Jim Burke, president and chief executive officer of Vistra. “Importantly, this demand growth is happening at the same time as the country is transitioning to cleaner energy sources and many fossil plants are retiring. Electricity is one of the most basic building blocks of the economy, and extending the operation of our nuclear fleet provides decades of support for both existing and growing sectors.” 

The two-unit nuclear plant in Glen Rose, Tex. has a capacity of 2,400 MW – enough to power about 1.2 million Texas homes in normal conditions and 480,000 homes in periods of peak demand. Since it began operating in 1990, Comanche Peak has generated more than 582 million megawatt-hours of reliable, emission-free electricity. 

“We take pride in the part we play every day in powering the grid with carbon-free energy. Our dedicated Comanche Peak team operates the plant safely and at a high level of performance, and I’m proud that this record of excellence has paved the way to securing another 20 years of operation,” said Ken Peters, chief nuclear officer of Vistra. “I want to acknowledge the tremendous work by the team who facilitated one of the most efficient license renewal efforts with the NRC.” 

Economic Engine for Local Economy 

The extension of Comanche Peak’s operation also ensures continued economic benefits to the local area. The plant is operated by more than 600 employees and more than 200 permanent contractors. Refueling outages for the two reactors require supplemental workers and bring in anywhere from 800-1,200 skilled technicians from across the country. These contractors are a source of substantial additional economic activity for hotels, restaurants, and related businesses in the area. 

Vistra’s Growing Nuclear Fleet 

Of the six units making up Vistra’s nuclear fleet, five have now received license extensions for another 20 years of operation. In addition to the two units at Comanche Peak, Beaver Valley’s two units are licensed through 2036 and 2047, respectively. Davis-Besse is licensed through 2037. Perry’s application has been submitted, and we expect to receive the NRC’s decision in 2025.