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RESEARCH ARTICLE

Local labor market effects of nuclear power plants

Duha T. Altindag

Corresponding Author

Duha T. Altindag

Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA

Correspondence

Duha T. Altindag, Auburn University, 136 Miller Hall, Auburn University, AL 36849-5049.

Email: [email protected]

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Reem El Cheikh Taha

Reem El Cheikh Taha

Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA

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Jennifer U. Jones

Jennifer U. Jones

Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, USA

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R. Alan Seals Jr.

R. Alan Seals Jr.

Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA

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First published: 08 July 2025

Abstract

Using a differences-in-differences strategy, we estimate the local economic effects of U.S. commercial nuclear power plants (NPPs). Our control group consists of locations where plant construction was planned but ultimately canceled. We find that NPP construction significantly increases local employment and wages, with effects concentrated in the construction and public utilities sectors. However, these gains dissipate once construction concludes and the plant becomes operational, as operational employment requirements are minimal. We find no significant spillover effects on neighboring towns, and commercial operations do not meaningfully impact broader labor market outcomes. Additionally, we find that NPP construction increases local government revenues and expenditures by approximately 10% to 15%, with funds primarily allocated to government administration and public works. These results suggest that while NPPs provide short-term economic stimulus, their long-term labor market and fiscal benefits may be limited.

DATA AVAILABILITY STATEMENT

The data that support the findings of this study are openly available in Harvard Dataverse at https://doi.org/10.7910/DVN/TETAEG, V1, UNF:6:U21e8vjb/VNE6AZXCWdxDQ=[fileUNF].

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