TerraPower to Build $450M Cancer Isotope Plant in Philly

Facility will produce rare radioactive isotopes used in cancer treatments, bringing 225 jobs to the Bellwether District.

Mar. 20, 2026 at 6:09am

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TerraPower Isotopes, a nuclear science company founded by Bill Gates, plans to build a $450 million manufacturing facility in South Philadelphia at the Bellwether District, the redeveloped site of the former Philadelphia Energy Solutions oil refinery. The facility will produce actinium-225, a rare radioactive isotope used in targeted cancer therapies, and create 225 full-time jobs within three years.

Why it matters

The project represents a major investment in Philadelphia's life sciences and advanced manufacturing sectors, transforming the former refinery site into a hub for innovative medical technologies. It also brings new industry and job opportunities to the surrounding community, which has long advocated for redevelopment that benefits local residents.

The details

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has committed $10 million in grants to secure the project, which includes $7 million through the Pennsylvania Strategic Investments to Enhance Sites program and $3 million through Pennsylvania First grants. TerraPower may also apply for additional state tax incentives. Construction is expected to begin this spring, with operations scheduled to start in 2029.

  • Construction of the facility is expected to begin this spring.
  • The facility is scheduled to start operations in 2029.

The players

TerraPower Isotopes

A nuclear science company founded by Bill Gates that will build the $450 million manufacturing facility in South Philadelphia.

Bellwether District

The redeveloped site of the former Philadelphia Energy Solutions oil refinery, where the new TerraPower facility will be located.

Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development

The state agency that has committed $10 million in grants to secure the TerraPower project.

Governor Josh Shapiro

The governor of Pennsylvania who announced the state's investment in the TerraPower project.

Cherelle L. Parker

The mayor of Philadelphia, who called the TerraPower development a 'major win for Philadelphia.'

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What they’re saying

“Pennsylvania is competing again and winning major deals.”

— Governor Josh Shapiro

“Exciting things are coming to South Philly, and we are just getting started.”

— Cherelle L. Parker, Mayor of Philadelphia

“This new facility is a testament to the demand for actinium-225 as part of the growing industry which is transforming how cancer is treated.”

— Scott Claunch, President of TerraPower Isotopes

What’s next

Construction of the TerraPower facility is expected to begin this spring, with operations scheduled to start in 2029.

The takeaway

The TerraPower project represents a significant investment in Philadelphia's life sciences and advanced manufacturing sectors, transforming the former refinery site into a hub for innovative medical technologies and creating hundreds of new jobs for the local community.