COVERT, Mich. -- Entergy’s Palisades Power Plant removed its nuclear reactor from service on Friday, 11 days earlier than anticipated.

The early shut down was due to the performance of a control rod drive seal, the company said.

The plant began operation in 1971.

Once the used fuel from the reactor is removed, Holtec International will begin the process of decommissioning the plant.

“The enduring legacy of Palisades is the thousands of men and women who safely, reliably, and securely operated the plant, helping power Southwest Michigan homes and businesses for more than 50 years,” said Darrell Corbin, site vice president. “We refer to a credo at Palisades: ‘Palisades Proud.’ Thanks to the pride, professionalism, and hard work of our 600-member team, we finished Palisades Proud. We are also grateful to the local community for its support of the plant and for the strong partnership we have enjoyed all these years.”

Holtec plans to have the facility dismantled, decontaminated and remediated by 2041.