How Many Nuclear Plants in Texas?
Texas is the largest state in the contiguous United States, covering an area of over 268,000 square miles. Known for its vibrant cities, rich history, and diverse culture, Texas is also a major player in the field of nuclear energy. There are currently two operational nuclear power plants in Texas: the South Texas Project (STP) and Comanche Peak.
South Texas Project (STP)
Located approximately 15 miles southeast of Bay City, Texas, the STP is operated by South Texas Project Electric Generating Company LLC, a subsidiary of Exelon Generation Company. The STP has three operational reactors:
- Unit 1: A boiling water reactor (BWR) that began commercial operation in July 1985.
- Unit 2: A BWR that began commercial operation in February 1987.
- Unit 3: A BWR that began commercial operation in April 1988.
The STP has a total power generation capacity of 3,937 megawatts (MW), making it one of the largest nuclear power plants in the United States. The facility is designed to generate electricity for over 2 million homes in the United States.
Comanche Peak
Located approximately 60 miles south of Dallas, Texas, the Comanche Peak Steam Electric Generation Station is operated by Comanche Peak Steam Electric Power Plant, LLC, a subsidiary of Luminant Generation Company, LLC. The plant has two operational reactors:
- Unit 1: A pressurized water reactor (PWR) that began commercial operation in April 1991.
- Unit 2: A PWR that began commercial operation in June 1994.
The Comanche Peak plant has a total power generation capacity of 4,460 MW, and is designed to generate electricity for over 2.5 million homes in the United States.
Other Nuclear Power Plants under Construction or Development in Texas
While the STP and Comanche Peak plants are currently the only operational nuclear power plants in Texas, there are several other projects under construction or in development:
• SMR Texas: A Next Generation Nuclear Power Plant planned for construction at the St. Paul, Texas site. The SMR design is a compact, single-unit reactor designed to operate at a high efficiency while minimizing waste.
• West Texas Power Plant: A proposed nuclear power plant planned for construction in Seminole, Texas, with a power generation capacity of 1,850 MW.
Nuclear Energy in Texas: Trends and Statistics
• Electricity generation: Texas is the second-largest electric power producer in the United States, accounting for nearly 25% of national electricity generation. Nuclear energy accounts for about 10% of total electricity generation in Texas.
• Jobs and investment: The nuclear power industry in Texas employs over 3,500 people directly and indirectly, and provides significant economic investment in local communities.
• Renewable energy: As part of Texas’ comprehensive energy strategy, the state is also focusing on expanding its renewable energy capacity. In 2020, wind energy accounted for approximately 24% of in-state electricity generation, making Texas the leading wind-powered state in the country.
• Radioactive waste disposal: In Texas, radioactive waste from nuclear reactors is stored in on-site storage facilities at the reactors themselves. In the United States, a permanent national repository for storing spent nuclear fuel is under construction in Nevada.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are currently two operational nuclear power plants in Texas: the South Texas Project and Comanche Peak. Both facilities are significant contributors to Texas’ electricity generation capacity, and are playing an increasingly important role in the state’s energy landscape. Additionally, several other nuclear projects are under construction or development, highlighting the state’s commitment to the nuclear power industry. As Texas looks to the future, balancing energy production, environmental protection, and economic growth, the role of nuclear power will continue to be a vital part of the discussion.
