Holtec (HNUC) received a U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission exemption on August 28, 2026, allowing certain early site construction activities for Pioneer Units 1 and 2 at the Palisades Energy Center in Michigan before issuance of a Limited Work Authorization (LWA).
The decision permits installation of permanent support-of-excavation and cutoff-wall systems, including diaphragm and soldier-pile soil-mix walls, to stabilize excavations, protect nearby structures, manage groundwater, and support safe construction. Holtec may proceed with excavation, dewatering, and ground-improvement work for the Nuclear Island, Turbine Island, and Balance of Plant structures. An NRC Environmental Assessment and Finding of No Significant Impact concluded the activities do not significantly affect the human environment or historic properties, and the exemption does not itself commit the NRC to issue an LWA or construction permit.