Georgia powers up: the complex journey and future of nuclear energy at Plant Vogtle

After years of delays and skyrocketing costs, the new reactors at Plant Vogtle in Georgia have finally begun operations.

Zach Bright reports for E&E News.

In short:

• Plant Vogtle's expansion, which includes two new reactors, finished with a $35 billion cost and a seven-year delay.
• The reactors are expected to generate about 1,100 megawatts each, contributing to carbon-free power production.
• Small modular reactors (SMRs) are gaining attention as a more feasible alternative for future nuclear projects.

Key quote:

"A generation from now, the people in Georgia are going to be really, really happy that Vogtle Units 3 and 4 have gone online."

— Jeff Merrifield, former member of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission

Why this matters:

The completion of Vogtle's reactors represents a significant step toward meeting the increasing demand for clean energy, however, some point to high costs of the plant and disposing of the waste remains a tricky issue.