Ritchie Applauds PSC Decision To Approve Transfer Of Fitzpatrick Nuclear Power Plant

State Senator Patty Ritchie today applauded the decision of the New York State Public Service Commission’s (PSC) to approve the transfer of the James A. Fitzpatrick Nuclear Power Plant from Entergy Nuclear Operations, Inc. to the Exelon Generation Company, a critical step in the effort to protect local jobs and the reliability of the state’s energy grid.

Ritchie, who was at Thursday’s meeting where the PSC voted to approve the transfer, lauded the positive impact the decision would have on the region’s economy, the state’s energy grid and on New York’s efforts to meet new clean energy goals.

“I want to thank Chairwoman Zibelman and the Commission for recognizing the importance of  the Fitzpatrick Nuclear Plant and approving the ownership transfer to Exelon,” said Senator Ritchie.

“Today’s decision is critical to saving the plant, protecting the jobs of its more than 600 hardworking employees and achieving the state’s clean energy goals. I am pleased it has cleared this key hurdle and I am hopeful the other pieces of the puzzle that will ensure a smooth transition will also fall into place soon.”

The Fitzpatrick Nuclear Power Plant currently employs more than 600 people locally, and is one of the largest employers in the region. In addition, it also generates $500 million per year in economic activity, as well as produces enough energy to power more than 800,000 homes and businesses.

In addition to PSC approval, the plant’s transfer must also receive federal approval from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). Last month, Senator Ritchie sent a letter to the NRC, urging swift approval of the transfer.