Slideshow: Nuclear Science Week in the Carolinas

Since Duke Energy's first nuclear reactor started commercial operation in Hartsville, South Carolina, in 1971, nuclear energy has provided clean, reliable electricity for the Carolinas. In fact, the southeastern United States is home to the largest concentration of nuclear energy facilities in the country, and a new reactor in Tennessee only adds to the region’s nuclear energy legacy.  In some states like South Carolina, nuclear provides more than 50 percent of the state’s electricity, due in part to Duke Energy’s three nuclear plants, which have a combined capacity of more than 5,500 megawatts.

This October, Duke Energy celebrated more than 40 years of safe, efficient nuclear plant operation by helping community members learn about nuclear energy. As part of Nuclear Science Week, Duke Energy’s nuclear volunteers reached out to hundreds of students, scouts and other community members with interactive presentations and workshops.

Volunteers from Duke Energy’s Brunswick Nuclear Plant also had the special opportunity to participate in the Nuclear Science Week “Big Event” in Wilmington, North Carolina. More than 1,500 community members attended the event, which featured nuclear industry exhibits, panel discussions, student and teacher workshops, and tours of Duke Energy’s Brunswick Nuclear Plant.

Check out the photos below to see how we helped the Carolinas get to know nuclear.