Vogtle Unit 3 safely reaches 100 percent power
Vogtle Unit 3 reached a major milestone last week, safely reaching 100 percent power, according to Georgia Power, which owns the nuclear power plant.
This marks the maximum energy the unit is licensed to produce in the reactor core. It is the first time the unit has reached its expected output of approximately 1,100 electric MW, which can power an estimated 500,000 homes and businesses.
“Unit 3 is currently undergoing testing through the full range of plant operations, including safely running at various power levels and operating through real-life conditions just as it will over the next 60 to 80 years after the unit enters commercial operation,” said Kim Greene, chairman, president, and CEO of Georgia Power. “As we enter the final stages of startup testing, reaching 100 percent power for the first time is an exciting milestone. It tells us we’re close to finishing the unit safely and bringing it online to power Georgia homes and businesses with reliable, emissions-free energy for decades to come.”
With the unit reaching full power for the first time, various tests must be performed at this power level before the unit is available for reliable dispatch. Testing at the 100 percent power level is focused on the operation of the reactor, plant control systems for the reactor and support systems, and integrated plant operations. In addition, plant performance is monitored at various conditions, and data is gathered and evaluated by site engineers.
This is the latest in a string of key milestones for Vogtle units 3 and 4. Earlier in May, Vogtle Unit 4 began receiving nuclear fuel. In April, Vogtle Unit 3 generated electricity for the first time and successfully synchronized and connected to the electric grid. In March, operators safely started the nuclear reaction inside the reactor for Unit 3, resulting in atoms being split and nuclear heat being produced, which is used to produce steam.
The new Vogtle units are an essential part of Georgia Power’s commitment to delivering clean, safe, reliable, and affordable energy to its 2.7 million customers. The two new units will be clean energy sources that produce zero emissions.
