Restoring Confidence: The Critical Role of Concrete Restoration in Power Plant Upgrades

Now that AI and data centers are demanding a greater share of power, nuclear power generation are coming back into favor as a potential source of reliable low-carbon electricity. The surge in interest is leading to exciting developments in the energy industry, including advancements with small modular reactors.

However, there are sustainable alternatives for pursuing nuclear power, too, such as restarting dormant nuclear plants and extending the life of existing reactors. The Energy Department recently announced plans to restart the Palisades nuclear plant in southwest Michigan, which closed in 2022. And in Pennsylvania, the Three Mile Island nuclear plant is being refurbished to power Microsoft data centers.

Of course, it’s not as simple as flipping a switch. Some shuttered and aging plants could require significant investment in infrastructure. One area of consideration is the concrete structures. Although durable, concrete may have deteriorated or corrosion that may need to be addressed. In addition, some renovation work may require concrete be added to or removed from the structure.

 

Nuclear Restoration Requires an Agile Approach

Restoring the structural integrity of a nuclear facility is a high-stakes project, likely to require Nuclear Quality Assurance (NQA-1) qualifications from the contractors.

Moreover, one-size-fits-all methods rarely address the complexity of industrial restorations. Owners need restoration partners that can thoroughly assess existing structures, offer tailored solutions for multiple project requirements, and help prioritize and sequence the work. Partners that are qualified and experienced in multiple disciplines see the big picture and can act as solution advisors. They help spot and address issues before they negatively impact the budget or operations, which adds more value to the project overall.

Finding a concrete restoration partner that operates their own NQA-1 program and that can meet complicated project requirements is a boon for owners — but hard to come by. Many contractors narrowly focus on a single solution or lack the experience required for nuclear facility work. When owners are forced to coordinate and monitor a roster of single-solution partners, there’s more work around security, scheduling, and equipment — not to mention possible redundant costs for tasks like mobilization or project management.

In addition, plants that are operational (or coming back online in phases) also need restoration partners that are willing to minimize disruptions to day-to-day workflows. Owners want projects completed on time, and plant employees want to work without interruption or excessive noise, dust, or inconvenience. Contractors that respect owners’ priorities and goals can meticulously plan and coordinate work to minimize disruptions.

 

Finding the Right Partner Starts with These Questions

How do you find the right restoration partner when the bar is so high?

Assess potential partners based on their experience, qualifications, and reputation first. Then consider their willingness and ability to tailor their solutions for project-specific needs. For example:

• Can the restoration partner assess the project and offer multiple, brand-independent solutions?
• Is the restoration partner willing to tailor solutions based on your project parameters and goals?
• Does the restoration partner offer a single solution, or can they assemble a tailored package for the project?
• Will the restoration partner suggest structural repairs or adaptive renovations that allow the facility to grow and evolve?
• Can the restoration partner help prioritize the work and build a plan to get the plant operational?
• What is the restoration partner willing to do to minimize disruption to ongoing operations?
• Does the restoration partner have frameworks or practices in place to ensure safety and minimize risk?
• Is the restoration partner a transparent and clear communicator?

 

The Baker Difference

Baker’s Restoration team is more than a contractor; we’re a partner. We prioritize what’s best for our clients, not what’s most convenient for us.

We conduct detailed structural assessments and in-depth planning sessions to understand our clients’ priorities. Then, we collaborate on customized, brand-independent plans to safely deliver high-quality structural work and restorations, with minimal impact to existing operations.

We have an established safety record and the qualifications to work on sensitive, high-risk sites, plus extensive, boots-on-the-ground experience. We can offer practical insights to reduce the risk of rework, schedule creep, and budget overruns.

We deliver a consistent, quality experience on every project. From safety standards to project timelines, expect excellence from Baker.

Owners, regulators, and local communities want reassurance — and proof — that once-shuttered plants and aging reactors will operate safely. Baker Restoration will partner with you to deliver high-quality technology and solutions safely, on time, and on budget — so our clients can focus on powering the future. Contact us to learn more.