First new U.S. nuclear reactor since 2016 is now in operation (eia.gov)

Article summary

The first new US nuclear reactor since 2016 has started commercial operation at the Vogtle power plant in Georgia. The reactor, Vogtle Unit 3, is a 1,114 megawatt Westinghouse AP1000 design and is expected to be followed by a similar Unit 4. The project was originally estimated to cost $14 billion but has ended up costing over $30 billion due to construction delays and cost overruns. The new reactors will make Vogtle the largest nuclear power plant in the US.

Main themes

• nuclear power
• energy costs
• construction delays
• renewable energy
• US energy policy
• infrastructure development

What commenters say

• Nuclear power is too expensive and ineffective due to cost overruns and construction delays.
• The cost of nuclear power can be competitive with renewables if construction times and interest rates are considered.
• The US has lost expertise in building nuclear power plants and it would be better to develop a repeatable and scalable process.
• The high cost of nuclear power is not just due to construction costs but also due to decommissioning costs and waste disposal.
• Renewable energy sources like wind and solar are becoming increasingly cost-competitive with nuclear power.
• The US should focus on developing its own nuclear power industry rather than relying on foreign technology and expertise.
• Government support and regulatory capture can influence the development of nuclear power and other energy sources.
• The cost of nuclear power should be evaluated based on its ability to provide firm and reliable power, rather than just its levelized cost of energy.