ALLENTOWN - The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has approved a 20-year extension of the operating licenses for both reactors at PPL’s Susquehanna nuclear power plant in Luzerne County, Pa.

The license for Unit 1 has been extended to 2042; the license for Unit 2 has been extended to 2044.

“We’re pleased that the NRC continues to express confidence in our commitment to safely operate and maintain the plant for many years to come,” said Tim Rausch, chief nuclear officer for PPL Susquehanna. “Our employees have certainly demonstrated that ability through the safe, reliable and record-setting operation of the plant.”

The decision by the NRC to extend the licenses is based on thorough safety and environmental reviews of PPL’s application submitted in September 2006. The NRC reviewed thousands of pages documenting safety and environmental studies, and programs and processes for managing equipment.

After three years of intensive review, the NRC concluded that no safety or environmental concerns would prevent license renewal and that PPL had effectively demonstrated the ability to manage the effects of aging on plant equipment and systems.

“The $18.2 million PPL invested in this effort is an economical way to ensure the continued safe and reliable supply of electricity for homes and businesses throughout the region,” Rausch said.