Nuclear Power in the USA

Uranium (Nuclear Minerals) / Nuclear Power - Economics, Design, & Industry

Date posted: 01/01/10

The USA is the world's largest producer of nuclear power, accounting for more than 30% of worldwide nuclear generation of electricity. The country's 104 nuclear reactors produced 809 billion kWh in 2008, almost 20% of total electrical output. Following a 30-year period in which few new reactors were built, it is expected that 4-8 new units may come on line by 2018, the first of those resulting from 17 licence applications to build 26 new nuclear reactors made since mid 2007. Government policy changes since the late 1990s have helped pave the way for significant growth in nuclear capacity. Government and industry are working closely on expedited approval for construction and new plant designs. The USA has 104 nuclear power reactors in 31 states, operated by 30 different power companies. In 2008, the country generated 4,119 billion kWh net of electricity, 49% of it from coal-fired plant, 22% from gas and 6% from hydropower (Dams).