Where are Nuclear Plants in Texas?
Texas is a leading producer of electricity in the United States, and nuclear power plays a significant role in the state’s energy mix. There are four operational nuclear power plants in Texas, located along the Gulf Coast and in the central part of the state. In this article, we will explore where these nuclear plants are located, their capacity, and some interesting facts about each plant.
San Antonio Nuclear Power Plant
The San Antonio Nuclear Power Plant, also known as the South Texas Project (STP), is located approximately 90 miles southeast of San Antonio, Texas. It is one of the largest nuclear power plants in the United States, with two operational reactors: STP-1 and STP-2. STP-1, built in 1986, has a capacity of 1,240 megawatts (MW), while STP-2, built in 1988, has a capacity of 1,240 MW. The plant is owned and operated by NRG Energy, a leading energy company in the United States.
Comanche Peak Nuclear Power Plant
The Comanche Peak Nuclear Power Plant is located in Glen Rose, Texas, approximately 60 miles southwest of Fort Worth. It is a two-unit plant, with Unit 1 and Unit 2 both operational since the 1990s. Unit 1 has a capacity of 1,240 MW, while Unit 2 has a capacity of 1,240 MW. The plant is owned and operated by Luminant, a subsidiary of Energy Future Holdings.
South Texas Project (STP) Units 3 and 4
In 2019, construction began on two new reactors at the South Texas Project (STP) site, known as STP-3 and STP-4. STP-3 is expected to be operational by 2027, with a capacity of 1,250 MW. STP-4 is expected to be operational by 2028, with a capacity of 1,250 MW. The new reactors will increase the plant’s total capacity to 3,480 MW, making it one of the largest nuclear power plants in the United States.
Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station
The Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station is located in Tonopah, Arizona, approximately 60 miles west of Phoenix. Although not located in Texas, it is often associated with the state due to its proximity and shared power grid. The plant is owned and operated by Arizona Public Service Company and has three operational reactors, with a total capacity of 3,937 MW.
Interesting Facts
- Nuclear power plants in Texas produce enough electricity to power approximately 4.5 million homes.
- The South Texas Project (STP) is one of the largest nuclear power plants in the United States, with a total capacity of 2,400 MW.
- The Comanche Peak Nuclear Power Plant is the largest nuclear power plant in Texas, with a total capacity of 2,480 MW.
- The new STP-3 and STP-4 reactors will increase the plant’s total capacity by 40%.
- Nuclear power plants in Texas have a combined annual emission reduction of over 15 million tons of CO2.
Comparison of Nuclear Power Plants in Texas
| Plant | Capacity (MW) | Reactors | Owner/Operator | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Texas Project (STP) | 2,400 | 2 | NRG Energy | Bay City, TX |
| Comanche Peak | 2,480 | 2 | Luminant | Glen Rose, TX |
| STP-3 and STP-4 (under construction) | 2,500 | 2 | NRG Energy | Bay City, TX |
Conclusion
Nuclear power plants play a significant role in Texas’s energy mix, providing clean and reliable electricity to millions of Texans. The South Texas Project, Comanche Peak, and the soon-to-be-completed STP-3 and STP-4 reactors are all located along the Gulf Coast and in the central part of the state. By understanding where these nuclear plants are located, we can better appreciate the importance of nuclear energy in Texas and the significant role it plays in the state’s energy landscape.
