California planned a nuclear exit. Now it’s reconsidering
California is reconsidering its planned nuclear power exit, specifically for the Diablo Canyon plant, due to a significant surge in electricity demand driven largely by AI data centers, electric vehicles, and building electrification. The state had already extended the plant's life to 2030, and there's now a growing movement and legislative debate to extend its operation further to 2045 amidst concerns over energy reliability and environmental impacts.
California is rethinking its strategy to phase out nuclear power, particularly at the Diablo Canyon plant in San Luis Obispo, as the state faces an unexpected surge in electricity demand. This increased demand, projected to grow by 50% through 2045, is largely attributed to the proliferation of artificial intelligence data centers, electric vehicles, and building electrification. The state, legally mandated to achieve 100% carbon-free energy by 2045, is struggling with how to meet these dual goals.
Originally slated for closure in 2025, the Diablo Canyon plant's operator, Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), had agreed to shut down its reactors. However, Governor Gavin Newsom and state officials extended its operating life to 2030, acknowledging its crucial role in providing up to 9% of California's electricity. Now, a coalition of nearly 50 groups, including labor unions and the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors, advocates for a further extension until 2045, citing nuclear power's greenhouse gas-free emissions and the plant's stable baseload power.
Opponents, including local residents and environmental groups like Mothers for Peace, are concerned about 15 additional years of nuclear waste storage, seismic risks, and the plant's daily use of 2.5 billion gallons of ocean water for cooling. They argue that keeping Diablo Canyon online hinders the growth of renewable energy. However, PG&E's chief of strategic initiatives, Conor Doyle, highlights the intermittency of solar and wind power, stating that without Diablo Canyon's round-the-clock power, natural gas would likely fill the void. The decision on extending the plant's life beyond 2030 now rests with the Legislature, with Senator John Laird (D-Santa Cruz) indicating a thoughtful consideration in 2027 to address critical issues like safety and spent fuel storage.