Exelon takes Quad Cities nuclear unit offline

CORDOVA -- Exelon took Unit 2 of its Quad Cities nuclear generating station offline when one of two reactor recirculation water pumps tripped.

According to Exelon, the pumps balance water flow through the reactor. In a statement, the electric utility said technical experts are looking into why the equipment did not function properly.

Officials said Unit 2 was taken off line "in accordance with standard procedures," and without impact on employee or public safety.

Chicago-based Exelon says taking down Unit 2 had no impact on utility customers, noting Unit 1 continues to operate.

The Quad Cities power plant is located on 765-acres along the Mississippi River, and according to Exelon provides electricity to about 1.5 million customers.