© 2024 Connecticut Public

FCC Public Inspection Files:
WEDH · WEDN · WEDW · WEDY · WNPR
WPKT · WRLI-FM · WEDW-FM · Public Files Contact
ATSC 3.0 FAQ
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Despite Criticism Of Millstone, Malloy Signs Energy Bill

Millstone Power Station

Governor Dannel Malloy signed a bill Tuesday that could change the way Connecticut's only nuclear power plant sells its energy.

The bill could potentially allow the Millstone Power Station to sell its power alongside higher-priced zero-carbon sources like solar and wind.

Nuclear energy has taken a financial hit in recent years as natural gas prices have fallen.

Now, Dominion, which owns the Waterford-based plant, could compete against those renewables -- but only if state regulators say it's in the interest of ratepayers and Connecticut's long-term carbon goals.

“The importance of this asset to both the state and the region cannot be overstated,” Malloy said, in a statement. “If we are to realize the goals set out by this legislation, there is more work to be done.”

Malloy said the company needs to be "significantly" more forthcoming about its financial hardship.

A preliminary analysis released Monday said Millstone is expected to be highly profitable through 2035.

In a letter to Malloy, Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Commissioner Rob Klee said between 2022 and 2035, it’s estimated Dominion will make around $2.3 billion off the power plant.

“As such, there is unlikely to be a basis upon which to conclude at this time that Dominion requires electric ratepayers to provide financial support outside the regional market in order for Millstone to continue operating profitably,” Klee wrote.

Patrick Skahill is a reporter and digital editor at Connecticut Public. Prior to becoming a reporter, he was the founding producer of Connecticut Public Radio's The Colin McEnroe Show, which began in 2009. Patrick's reporting has appeared on NPR's Morning Edition, Here & Now, and All Things Considered. He has also reported for the Marketplace Morning Report. He can be reached at pskahill@ctpublic.org.

Stand up for civility

This news story is funded in large part by Connecticut Public’s Members — listeners, viewers, and readers like you who value fact-based journalism and trustworthy information.

We hope their support inspires you to donate so that we can continue telling stories that inform, educate, and inspire you and your neighbors. As a community-supported public media service, Connecticut Public has relied on donor support for more than 50 years.

Your donation today will allow us to continue this work on your behalf. Give today at any amount and join the 50,000 members who are building a better—and more civil—Connecticut to live, work, and play.

Related Content