New Nuclear Generation Technology

The U.S. energy industry is using standardized designs for future nuclear electric generating plants like those now being evaluated by FPL. The new designs will incorporate the latest technologies and more advanced safety features than today’s plants, which already have achieved record levels of safety

Key features of third-generation reactors include:

• a standardized design for each type to expedite licensing, reduce capital cost and reduce construction time;
• a simpler and safer design, making them easier to operate;
• higher availability and longer operating life;
• minimal effect on the environment; and
• more efficiencies in fuel consumption that will result in lower fuel costs.

Standardization means that reactors will be built in families of the same design, except for a limited number of site-specific differences. Standardization will reduce construction and operating costs, and lead to greater efficiencies and simplicity in all aspects of nuclear plant operations, including safety, maintenance, training and spare parts procurement.