The nuclear-powered Columbia Generating Station is once again contributing power to the Northwest power grid following a two-month shutdown for refueling and maintenance. 

The plant, located north of Richland, was reconnected the evening of June 16, according to a release.  

In addition to fresh fuel, numerous components and systems were upgraded, repaired and replaced to ensure the plant continues to provide energy for the region. 

“The work accomplished during this outage enhances Columbia’s reliability and strengthens our mission to provide carbon-free, cost-effective energy,” said Energy Northwest CEO Bob Schuetz in a statement. “The team completed an impressive amount of work, and we’re pleased to once again be producing much-needed electricity for the region.” 

The refueling is scheduled every two years. Energy Northwest also coordinates with Bonneville Power Administration to have the shutdown coincide when snowmelt runoff and hydroelectric power generation are at their highest levels. 

Among the bigger projects completed during the refueling were installation of a new adjustable speed drive system, repair of the circulating water basin, electrical generator inspection and replacement of a reactor recirculation pump and motor. 

The next refueling cycle in 2027 will kick-off a multiyear effort to also increase energy generation at the plant.  As part of a $700 million deal between Energy Northwest and BPA, 24 megawatts of energy-efficiency upgrades will be incorporated  in 2027, 2029 and 2031, bringing the total increase to 186 megawatts.  

That will produce enough additional energy to power 125,000 homes as the region continues to grow in population but also energy consumption from businesses and technology, especially artificial intelligence and their power hungry data centers.