Infographic: The American Nuclear Landscape

With advancements in small modular reactors and an increased focus on sustainable, reliable energy sources, nuclear energy is seeing renewed interest. In June 2024, Bill Gates' nuclear power company TerraPower began construction activities on its coal-to-nuclear power plant, Natrium, marking the first advanced nuclear reactor project in the Western Hemisphere. Less than a week later, the Wyoming Energy Authority announced another step forward in fission energy, announcing phase two of BWX technologies Inc.’s micro reactor project. 

Despite the growing trends in nuclear power, public perception remains a hurdle—one that prominent voices are working hard to change. Because the fact remains that America’s largest source of domestic clean energy comes from nuclear energy, which made up 48 percent of U.S. carbon-free electricity in 2023. Nuclear power plants operate at full power almost 95 percent of the time, designating nuclear one of the most reliable energy sources in the U.S. And as of May 2024, the nuclear energy industry employs nearly 60,000 U.S. workers.

And here are some bonus facts about American power plants:

• In 2024, on average, U.S. nuclear power plants have generated 65,669,772 MWh per month thus far.
• The leading state for monthly nuclear utility generation is also the state with the most nuclear reactors (11): lllinois. 
• Georgia is home to the largest and newest U.S. nuclear power plant, the Alvin W. Vogtle Electric Generating Plant, which began commercially operating in 2023 and 2024. 
• New York is home to the smallest U.S. nuclear power plant, The R.E. Ginna Nuclear Power Plant, as well as the oldest operating nuclear reactor: The Nine Mile Point Unit 1, which has been operating since 1969.