How many nuclear power plants are in the United States, and where are they located?
As of May 25, 2022, there were 54 commercially operating nuclear power plants with 92 nuclear power reactors in 28 U.S. states. Of the currently operating nuclear power plants, 19 plants have one reactor, 32 plants have two reactors, and 3 plants have three reactors.
The Palo Verde nuclear power plant in Arizona is the largest nuclear plant, and it has three reactors with a combined net summer electricity generating capacity of 3,937 megawatts (MW). The R.E. Ginna Nuclear Power Plant in New York is the smallest nuclear plant, and it has one reactor with a net summer electricity generating capacity of about 581 MW.
The newest nuclear reactor to enter service, Watts Bar Unit 2 with 1,122 MW net summer electricity generating capacity, began commercial operation in 2016.
Two new nuclear reactors are actively under construction: Vogtle Units 3 and 4 in Georgia.
Learn more:
Does EIA publish the location of electric power plants, transmission lines, and substations?
Articles on nuclear energy
U.S. Nuclear Generation and Generating Capacity
Data on operable, proposed, and retired generators at U.S. power plants (file: GeneratorYyy)
List of new, retired, and planned generators (See Tables 6.3, 6.4, 6.5, and 6.6 for most recent available survey data.)
Nuclear Energy Explained
Last updated: May 25, 2022
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