Georgia Power has announced that the Vogtle Unit 3 has safely reached 100% power, bringing it one step closer to commercial operation and providing service to customers. This milestone signifies the maximum energy output licensed for the reactor core, marking the unit's first time reaching its expected output of around 1,100 electric MW. This capacity can power an estimated 500,000 homes and businesses.
“Unit 3 is currently undergoing testing through the full range of plant operations, including safely running at various power levels and operating through real-life conditions just as it will over the next 60 to 80 years after the unit enters commercial operation,” said Kim Greene, chairman, president and CEO of Georgia Power. “As we enter the final stages of startup testing, reaching 100% power for the first time is an exciting milestone. It tells us we're close to finishing the unit safely and bringing it online to power Georgia homes and businesses with reliable, emissions-free energy for decades to come.”
In line with the comprehensive testing conducted during the power ascension process, the focus now shifts to testing the reactor’s operation, plant control systems, support systems, and integrated plant operations at the 100% power level. Site engineers closely monitor plant performance under various conditions, gathering and evaluating data. Further tests must be conducted at this power level before the unit can be reliably dispatched, adhering to its combined operating license requirements.
Once all startup testing is successfully completed and the unit is deemed available for reliable dispatch, Vogtle Unit 3 will enter commercial operation, with expectations for it to be operational by June 2023.
Recent milestones achieved across Vogtle Units 3 and 4 include the receipt of nuclear fuel for Unit 4, completion of hot functional testing for Unit 4, synchronization to the grid for Unit 3, and the attainment of initial criticality for Unit 3. These milestones demonstrate progress toward the safe and efficient operation of the new units.
The Vogtle units play a vital role in Georgia Power’s commitment to delivering clean, reliable, and affordable energy to its 2.7 million customers. Once operational, these units will serve as clean energy sources with zero emissions. Southern Nuclear will oversee the operation of the new units on behalf of co-owners including Georgia Power, Oglethorpe Power, MEAG Power, and Dalton Utilities.
