Nation’s two oldest nuclear plants, both in Upstate NY, apply for 20-year license extensions

Constellation Energy has filed applications with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission to extend the operating licenses of its two oldest reactors—Nine Mile Point in Oswego County and Ginna in Wayne County—by 20 years, potentially keeping them running until 2049. The plants, among the nation’s oldest, would become the first to receive such extensions under updated federal safety guidelines, though approval is not guaranteed. Coverage highlights the economic and energy security implications, with local and financial outlets emphasizing the potential impact on regional power grids and Constellation’s stock performance.

Reuters, BBC News, and regional outlets like *Syracuse.com* and *RochesterFirst* are tracking the filings, noting the plants’ role in New York’s energy mix. Financial platforms such as *Yahoo Finance* and *marketscreener.com* are focusing on Constellation’s stock response, while *Interesting Engineering* underscores the technical challenges of extending reactor lifespans. Local media, including *Oswego County News Now*, are centering on community and regulatory reactions. Next steps hinge on the NRC’s review process, which could take years.

Approval would require demonstrating compliance with updated safety standards, including aging management and seismic resilience. If granted, the extensions would solidify the plants’ place in New York’s transition to cleaner energy, though opposition from environmental groups or grid modernization advocates remains possible.