As of April 2024, the United States stands as a significant operator of nuclear power, hosting 54 commercial nuclear power plants. These plants house a total of 94 nuclear reactors spread across 28 states. This robust nuclear infrastructure plays a vital role in the nation’s energy mix, providing a substantial amount of electricity.
Key Statistics on US Nuclear Power Plants
To break down the numbers further, Illinois leads the nation with the highest number of nuclear reactors. This state is home to 11 reactors, contributing a total nameplate electricity generating capacity of 12,415 megawatts (MW). This impressive figure represents approximately 12% of the entire U.S. operating nuclear electricity generation capacity, highlighting Illinois’s crucial role in nuclear energy production.
Looking at the distribution across the 54 plants, the configuration varies. A significant portion, 31 plants, are equipped with two reactors each. Following this, 19 plants operate with a single reactor. There are also 4 plants with three reactors, and notably, just 1 plant boasting four reactors, showcasing the diverse scales of operation within the US nuclear power sector.
Plant Size and Capacity Variation
The scale of nuclear power plants in the US varies considerably, reflecting different design choices and energy demands. The Alvin W. Vogtle Electric Generating Plant in Georgia stands out as the largest in the country. With its four reactors, Vogtle boasts a total nameplate electricity generating capacity of around 4,658 MW and a net summer electricity generating capacity of 4,530 MW. This makes it a powerhouse of nuclear energy production.
In contrast, the R.E. Ginna Nuclear Power Plant in New York State represents the smaller end of the spectrum. As a single-reactor facility, Ginna has a nameplate generation capacity of 614 MW and a net summer generation capacity of approximately 580 MW. Further illustrating the range in reactor size, the two units at the Prairie Island nuclear plant in Minnesota are among the smallest individual reactors. Each unit has a nameplate generation capacity of 593 MW and a net summer generation capacity of about 520 MW.
Recent Developments in US Nuclear Power
The US nuclear power industry is not static; it continues to evolve with new developments. A recent milestone is the entry into service of Vogtle Unit 4 at the Alvin W. Vogtle Electric Generating Plant in Georgia. This newest reactor commenced commercial operation in April 2024, adding a significant 1,114 MW of nameplate electricity generating capacity to the nation’s grid. This addition underscores the ongoing investment and advancements in nuclear power within the United States.
Learn more:
- Plant Vogtle Unit 4 begins commercial operation
- Does EIA publish the location of electric power plants, transmission lines, and substations?
- Articles on nuclear energy
- U.S. Nuclear Generation and Generating Capacity
- Data on operable, proposed, and retired generators at U.S. power plants (file: GeneratorYyy)
- List of new, retired, and planned generators
- Nuclear Energy Explained
Last updated: May 8, 2024.
