Millstone Nuclear Power Plant— 2,162.9 MW Nuclear
The Millstone Nuclear Power Plant, located in the United States at coordinates 41.3119° N, -72.1686° W, is an essential facility in the region’s energy generation profile, contributing a robust capacity of 2,162.9 MW. Operated by Dominion Energy, this power plant plays a significant role in addressing the energy needs of Connecticut and surrounding areas. Since its commissioning in 1981, Millstone has utilized advanced nuclear technology, which enables the efficient and safe conversion of nuclear energy into electricity, thus supporting the growing demand for clean energy. In a landscape increasingly focused on sustainability, the role of nuclear power at Millstone is vital in helping to meet state and regional goals for reducing carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. The strategic positioning of the Millstone Nuclear Power Plant allows it to effectively serve a diverse range of consumers, from residential homes to large industrial facilities, ensuring a steady and reliable power supply. The operational context of the plant is further enhanced by supportive energy policies in the United States that advocate for the continued use of nuclear power as a low-carbon alternative to traditional energy sources. As the nation seeks to transition to cleaner energy solutions, Millstone stands out as a model for how nuclear energy can be integrated into the broader energy mix, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient grid. In summary, the Millstone Nuclear Power Plant is more than just a power generation facility; it is a cornerstone of Connecticut's energy strategy, exemplifying the crucial role of nuclear energy in forging a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.
2.16 GW
51 years old
United States of America, North America
- 91. largest of 10,098 plants in United States of America
- #691 worldwide by installed capacity
- #174 of 514 Nuclear plants worldwide
- 0.15% of the installed capacity of United States of America
51 years in operation
Nuclear fleet average: 38.1 years
Dominion Energy operates 8 plants totalling 13,197 MW
275 plants within 100 km, 18,299 MW combined
Source: Wikidata
Location
Zero Direct Emissions
Millstone Nuclear Power Plant is a nuclear power plant producing approximately 16105 GWh of clean electricity per year with zero direct CO₂ emissions during operation.
Lifecycle emissions: ~12 g CO₂/kWh (manufacturing, transport, decommissioning)
Technical Details
- Primary Fuel Type
- Nuclear
- Energy Source
- Non-Renewable
- Country
United States of America- Continent
- North America
- Data Source
- Global Power Plant Database
Millstone Nuclear Power Plant: A Key Player in the U.S. Energy Landscape
The Millstone Nuclear Power Plant, located in Waterford, Connecticut, is a significant energy facility in the United States, boasting a generating capacity of 2,162.9 megawatts (MW). Owned by Dominion Energy, the plant plays a crucial role in the regional and national energy sectors, providing a substantial portion of electricity to the New England grid. As one of the largest nuclear power plants in the Northeast, Millstone contributes to the reliability and stability of the energy supply in this densely populated region.
The plant utilizes nuclear fuel to generate electricity, primarily through the process of nuclear fission. In this process, the nuclei of uranium atoms are split to release a significant amount of energy, which is then converted into electricity using steam turbines. Millstone operates three reactors: Units 2 and 3 are pressurized water reactors (PWRs), while Unit 1, which is now decommissioned, was a boiling water reactor (BWR). The use of nuclear fuel allows Millstone to produce large amounts of electricity with relatively low greenhouse gas emissions, making it an essential component of the United States' efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and combat climate change.
In terms of environmental impact, the Millstone Nuclear Power Plant is designed to operate with a focus on safety and efficiency. Nuclear power generation emits negligible air pollutants, which helps improve air quality compared to fossil fuel-based power generation. However, the plant does produce radioactive waste, which must be managed and stored securely to prevent environmental contamination. Dominion Energy adheres to strict regulatory standards set by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) to ensure the safe operation of the plant and the protection of public health and the environment.
Regionally, Millstone serves as a critical energy source for Connecticut and the greater New England area. It is capable of supplying electricity to millions of homes and businesses, thereby supporting local economies and ensuring energy security. The plant also contributes to the diversification of the energy mix in the region, which includes other renewable and non-renewable sources of energy. In the context of the growing emphasis on clean energy, Millstone's nuclear capabilities are increasingly recognized as a necessary complement to intermittent renewable resources such as solar and wind.
In summary, the Millstone Nuclear Power Plant stands out as a vital asset in the United States' energy framework. With a significant capacity of 2,162.9 MW, it leverages nuclear fuel to provide consistent and low-emission electricity. The plant's environmental considerations and regional significance underscore its role in supporting energy needs while contributing to the broader goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the fight against climate change.
United States of America — Energy Profile
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