Two reactors could now operate until 2060
Dominion Energy has filed an application with the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission to renew North Anna nuclear power station’s operating licences for an additional 20-year term.
The Virginia-based utility company said the renewals would allow the station’s two Westinghouse pressurised water reactor units to operate through to 2060. North Anna-1, a 948-MW PWR, began commercial operation in June 1978 and North Anna-2, a 944-MW PWR in December 1980.
Dominion Energy's filing makes North Anna the second nuclear station in the state to seek a second renewal of its licences, beyond the original 40-year terms. Those original licences were granted in 1978 and 1980 and the extensions in in 2003.
The Virginia-based utility company said the renewals would allow the station’s two Westinghouse pressurised water reactor units to operate through to 2060. North Anna-1, a 948-MW PWR, began commercial operation in June 1978 and North Anna-2, a 944-MW PWR in December 1980.
Dominion Energy's filing makes North Anna the second nuclear station in the state to seek a second renewal of its licences, beyond the original 40-year terms. Those original licences were granted in 1978 and 1980 and the extensions in in 2003.
Dominion Energy filed a similar application to renew the licences of the two Surry nuclear power station units in 2018. The NRC is currently reviewing that application.
The company said Surry and North Anna combined produce 31% of the electricity for the company's 2.5 million customers and 95% of the carbon-free electricity in the state.
