Southern Nuclear has made history by loading a new, higher enriched nuclear fuel into a commercial reactor at Plant Vogtle Unit 2, marking the first time fuel enriched above 5 percent uranium-235 is being irradiated in a U.S. commercial reactor.
This pivotal test could pave the way for increased power production and improved efficiency across the nation’s nuclear power plants.
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The advanced fuel, developed through the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Accident Tolerant Fuel Program, features Westinghouse Electric Company’s ADOPT® fuel pellets, enriched up to 6 weight percent uranium-235. This higher enrichment level offers the potential for longer fuel cycles, increased power output, and reduced nuclear waste.
Currently, commercial nuclear reactors typically operate on fuel enriched between 3 and 5 percent. The shift to higher enrichment promises to extend operational cycles from 18 to 24 months, significantly enhancing plant efficiency and output.
“This achievement is a significant step forward for not only the resiliency of the entire U.S. operating fleet, but future nuclear technologies,” said Pete Sena, Southern Nuclear Chairman, President, and CEO. “Our goal is to operate our units for longer periods with higher output, and with higher enriched fuel, we’re even better positioned to meet the growing energy demands of the state of Georgia.”
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The fuel pellets, which also include additives designed to enhance safety performance, were derived from higher enriched uranium oxide powder prepared by Idaho National Laboratory. The powder was then processed into fuel pellets and fabricated into pins before being shipped to Plant Vogtle Unit 2 for testing.
Four lead test assemblies of the new fuel have been loaded into the reactor and will undergo irradiation testing for the next four and a half years. Throughout this period, the fuel will be meticulously examined after each fuel cycle, with a comprehensive review following the completion of testing. This extensive evaluation will be crucial in supporting the future commercialization and deployment of the advanced fuel across the United States.
This groundbreaking test represents a significant milestone in the nuclear energy sector, potentially ushering in a new era of more efficient and sustainable nuclear power generation.
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