Nuclear Energy Institute releases report highlighting Washington state’s only nuclear generating station

The Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) recently released a report providing information on Washington State’s only nuclear plant Columbia Generating Station, which is located near Richland, Washington.

The 1,207-megawatt plant is the third-largest power producer in the state behind the Grand Coulee and Chief Joseph dams and provides approximately 8 percent of the electricity generated in Washington. It has operated at more than 93 percent of its available capacity over the past five years.

“Columbia Generating Station is a vital part of Washington’s energy infrastructure,” NEI President and CEO Maria Korsnick said. “NEI’s study quantifies the many benefits this plant provides the local, state and regional economies.”

According to the report, Columbia Generating Station supports over 3,930 jobs annually, 2,830 of which are in Washington state, and generates $690 million in annual economic output. The study projects that the plant will generate over $8.9 billion in economic output in Washington between 2018 and 2043.

NEI’s report also notes that Columbia prevents 3.6 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year and provides information on its history, environmental stewardship, and community outreach efforts.