Economic Benefits

Three Mile Island has been a longtime economic engine for Pennsylvania. As a reliable, round-the clock energy source, TMI keeps electricity prices down for consumers and enhances electric system reliability.

TMI also bolsters the local and state economies because of its well-paying jobs, taxes, and products and services purchased by employees and the station.

To quantify TMI’s economic and system reliability benefits, Bates White, LLC conducted a study focused on the potential economic and system reliability impacts that would occur in the event that TMI’s operating license was not renewed. The study reveals the following major findings:

  • TMI lowers wholesale electricity prices in Pennsylvania by at least $288 million per year. Without the continued operation of TMI, there would be an increased need for generation from more expensive sources such as coal or natural gas. This would cause wholesale electricity prices to rise, thus increasing consumers' electricity bills.

  • TMI reduces peak hour electricity prices by $570,000 in a single hour. The impact of shutting down TMI would result in substantial electricity price increases for electric utilities across Pennsylvania during peak hours. Consumers would likely pay an additional $570,000 for electricity in just a single peak hour.

  • TMI enhances electric reliability in Pennsylvania, significantly decreasing the likelihood of power outages and transmission overloads.

  • TMI employs over 500 full-time personnel, not including security forces. About 40 percent, or approximately 200 employees reside in Dauphin County, and virtually all other employees reside in other Pennsylvania counties.

  • TMI directly contributes $99 million annually to Pennsylvania's economy through the impact of employee compensation, in-state expenditures on goods and services needed to operate the plant, and local and sate property tax payments.

  • TMI's $99 million direct economic impact in turn stimulates increased economic activity elsewhere in Pennsylvania’s economy, creating jobs and increasing disposable income. TMI's overall annual economic impact totals approximately $142 million in Pennsylvania. TMI creates an estimated 659 full-time equivalent jobs.

To view the entire report, titled "Economic and System Reliability Benefits of the Three Mile Island Generating Station," click here.