The Three Mile Island nuclear power plant is planned on getting reopened by Constellation Energy. This company is planning to restart TMI Unit 1 to use the energy for artificial intelligence. Microsoft is purchasing the energy from this plant to develop carbon-free energy sources for its data centers. Restarting a power plant has never been seen before and some think it is a dangerous thing to do, while others think it is a good way to save money and use an existing plant other than rebuilding a whole new one.
LONG TERM
Background: School Bus Passing Three Mile Island Plant
When the nuclear plant malfunctioned, harmful toxins and dangerous chemicals were released into the atmosphere, creating a hazardous envoirment. Many people and animals unknowingly ingested these harmful substances, which could have risks to their health. The release of these toxic materials not only caused health problems, such as respiratory issues and other illnesses, but it also led to long-term environmental damage. Over time, the contamination affected the surrounding ecosystems, resulting in lasting consequences for both the environment and the communities living nearby.
EFFECTS
"I am appointing a central Pennsylvania recovery committee to be chaired by my fine lieutenant governor, Bill Scranton, to review the role of nuclear power in meeting our energy needs in Pennsylvania, to monitor the long-term health effects of this accident, to assess the economic consequences, and to coordinate the implementation of assistance and relief to our people."
major statement by Governor Thornburgh following the ten harrowing days of the accident and stating that women and children will be able to safely return home, April 6, 1979
A dog purportedly blinded by radiation from Three Mile Island. Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
Three Mile Island Alert: Island Updates (Dec. 1979)
A man taking Geiger counter readings from the Susquehanna River after radioactive iodine was released into it from the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant, Middletown, Pennsylvania, April 2nd 1979.
Although this was an unfortunate accident, it did lead to some positive changes. It captured the attention of President Jimmy Carter and Governor Thornburgh, who took steps to improve safety measures and ensure better training for nuclear plant workers to prevent similar incidents in the future. In the years that followed, advancements were made in nuclear safety protocols, stricter regulations were enforced, and training programs were better. This served as a turning point, pointing out a much-needed focus on the importance of safety in the nuclear energy industry.
"The steps that I am taking today will help to assure that nuclear powerplants are operated safely. Safety, as it always has been and will remain, is my top priority."
President's Commission on the Accident at Three Mile Island Remarks Announcing Actions in Response to the Commission's Report.
NRC Staff Discuss TMI-2 Issues in 1979
"In addition, I will establish an independent advisory committee to help keep me and the public of the United States informed of the progress of the NRC and the industry in achieving and in making clear the recommendations that nuclear power will be safer."
President Jimmy Carter walking with members of the Three Mile Island Commission
President's Commission on the Accident at Three Mile Island Remarks Announcing Actions in Response to the Commission's Report.
Inside the Push to Restart Three Mile Island’s Aging Nuclear Reactor
Pictometry International
Sun Setting Behind Nuclear Cooling Towers and Reactor
Summary Of Events
Short term