[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 111 (Friday, June 27, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Pages S3596-S3597]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               RECOGNIZING THE GRAND GULF NUCLEAR STATION

 Mr. WICKER. Mr. President, I rise today to recognize and 
commend the Grand Gulf Nuclear Station in Port Gibson, MS, on the 
occasion of its 40th anniversary of commercial operation. As the 
largest single-unit nuclear power reactor in the United States, Grand 
Gulf stands as a pillar of reliable and resilient nuclear energy 
production, for Mississippi and for the entire region.
  Since beginning operations on July 1, 1985, Grand Gulf has delivered 
nearly 1,500 megawatts of carbon-free electricity, enough to power over 
800,000 homes. It is the only nuclear power plant in the State and 
currently supplies approximately 16 percent of Mississippi's total 
power generation. Its legacy is not only measured in megawatts but also 
in its role as a driver of economic development, technological 
excellence, and environmental stewardship.
  Grand Gulf's contributions to Mississippi's economy are substantial. 
The plant pays nearly $30 million in State and local taxes annually and 
brings in an additional 800 skilled contractors during routine 
maintenance and refueling periods--supporting local jobs and 
businesses. The Mississippi State Senate recently passed a resolution 
honoring Grand Gulf for its sustained service and economic impact to 
the State of Mississippi.
  At the heart of Grand Gulf's success are its people. I would like to 
recognize the team of over 750 highly trained nuclear professionals 
that operate and service the plant. Grand Gulf's team has cultivated a 
culture of safety, continuous improvement, and community service. The 
station maintains some of the highest safety standards in the industry, 
with redundant safety systems and rigorous employee training.
  Beyond its critical energy mission, Grand Gulf is also a valued 
community partner. In 2023, the plant donated more than $120,000 to 
local causes and logged nearly 4,000 hours of volunteer service. In 
2024, more than 1,600 students visited the station to learn about 
careers in nuclear energy, opening doors for the next generation of 
skilled professionals.

[[Page S3597]]

  In an era when reliable, resilient, and emissions-free electricity is 
more critical than ever, Grand Gulf continues to lead by example. I ask 
my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Grand Gulf team on 40 
years of excellence and thanking them for their enduring service to 
Mississippi, our communities, and the Nation.

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