Climate & Environment - Duke Energy | Nuclear Information Center

Nuclear Notes: Environmental Benefits

Duke Energy — Wed, 31 May 2023 14:32:00 GMT

We can all breathe easier thanks to nuclear energy. With zero carbon or methane emissions and millions of watts produced, nuclear energy is the cleanest source to generate an enormous amount of electricity.

To put it into perspective, over the past two years, Duke Energy’s six nuclear sites have avoided the release of more than 88 million tons of carbon dioxide. That’s the equivalent of taking 19.5 million passenger vehicles off the road.

Beyond the statistics, anyone can see the proof with their own eyes. The areas around our fleet of nuclear plants are some of the most scenic locations in the Carolinas, with thriving plant and animal life – all thanks to the technology and people that put the environment first.

Take a few minutes to learn more about nuclear energy’s environmental benefits in this edition of Nuclear Notes.

This series, Nuclear Notes, is designed to give you a clear picture of the importance of nuclear generation for a clean energy future.

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Nuclear continues to prove its value in the nation’s push to clean energy

Mikayla Kreuzberger — Thu, 21 Apr 2022 16:00:00 GMT

At Duke Energy, we’re taking action to address climate change while continuing to deliver affordable, reliable, increasingly clean energy.

We've set ambitious goals, striving toward at least a 50% reduction in carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from electricity generation in 2030 on the way to net-zero CO₂by 2050. We’re moving aggressively to make these goals a reality. Our company is fully focused, working together to accelerate execution of our clean energy strategy.

And that strategy cannot be achieved without nuclear power. Duke Energy’s nuclear fleet, which powers more than 8 million homes across the Carolinas, plays a significant role in the clean energy transformation. Duke Energy’s nuclear plants provided more than 83% of the company’s carbon-free generation in 2021, and the company remains committed to renewing the operating licenses of all 11 reactors it operates so they can safely and reliably operate for decades to come.

In June 2021, Duke Energy submitted a subsequent license renewal application for Oconee Nuclear Station in Seneca, S.C. Oconee is currently operating under its first 20-year license renewal. If approved, the subsequent license renewal would allow the station to generate electricity through midcentury.

Oconee Nuclear Station 2021 Highlights

The station set a record for annual net generation of more than 22 billion kilowatt-hours.
Its annual capacity factor was 99%. (Capacity factor is actual energy output compared to maximum possible energy output of 100%.)
The operation of Oconee avoided the release of 14.88 million tons of CO₂.
Unit 2 safely and reliably operated 24/7 for 701.4 days, setting a site record.

The nuclear plants, which are among the most robust and secure facilities in the world, are carefully monitored, expertly maintained and upgraded with state-of-the-art technology and components to ensure they operate safely and are available for our customers – now and in the future.

They remain economic drivers in the community, providing well-paying jobs, significant tax revenue, partnership opportunities and other benefits.

Community impact

Oconee Nuclear Station provides well-paying jobs to more than 800 employees, with additional contingent workers during refueling outages.
In 2021, Oconee Nuclear Station paid $19.3 million in property taxes to Oconee County, and $30.7 million in payroll taxes to South Carolina.
Employees in 2021 donated nearly $150,000 to local nonprofit organizations through Duke Energy’s payroll deduction campaign, which does not include the Duke Energy Foundation’s matching donations.
The World of Energy education center at Oconee continues to provide free, educational outreach and community events, and opens its doors to walk-in visitors each week. The World of Energy is currently open Wednesday-Friday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. for visitors.

For decades, the Oconee Nuclear Station team has been a proud community neighbor and partner. We are confident that nuclear energy will continue to be a clean, reliable, impactful energy source for decades to come.

With this focus and our continuing partnerships with stakeholders, we’re confident we can meet our goals and secure a clean energy future for the millions of Americans we are proud to serve.

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Nuclear power: what our teammates wish the community knew

Ellen Morton — Mon, 30 Aug 2021 14:10:00 GMT

Did you know that nuclear power is Duke Energy’s largest clean energy source? As the only energy source that produces electricity 24 hours a day without emitting greenhouse cases, our facilities generate enough electricity to power more than 8 million homes across the Carolinas.

In 2020, our nuclear fleet generated more than 73 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity and avoided the release of almost 50 million tons of carbon dioxide. This marked our 22nd consecutive year with a fleet capacity factor – a measure of reliability – greater than 90%.

Our nuclear fleet, alongside renewables like wind, solar and hydropower, help ensure a reliable and balanced generation mix that supports Duke Energy's commitment to a net-zero carbon-free future.

But, the benefits of nuclear energy don’t stop there.

From safety to the people, hear what these nuclear teammates wish others knew about this reliable generation source.

Christine Flynn, Nuclear Engineer: Nuclear energy plays an essential role in our diverse energy mix as the only clean air energy source that operates 24/7/365. In North Carolina, nuclear provides over 70% of the state’s carbon-free electricity and in South Carolina, nuclear provides over 90% of the state’s carbon-free electricity. As the largest source of clean energy, nuclear will play a crucial role in helping us met our carbon reduction goals and achieve our net-zero by 2050 goal.

Timothy Thompson, Nuclear Station Operations Instructor: I wish people knew how much a nuclear reactor operator prepares prior to being licensed to operate a nuclear reactor. The education they must complete in order to obtain a license from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) takes between 12 and 18 months. But this is not like college, where they may have classes on Tuesday/Thursday or Monday/Wednesday/Friday. These students attend training daily, with classes starting in the morning and ending in the evening, and after-hours and weekends spent reviewing. Exams are given by plant-certified instructors throughout the program, with the final exam given by the NRC. The final exam consists of a written exam (that takes approximately six to eight hours), two control room simulator exams and 15 job-performance evaluations of variations of plant, simulator and administrative tasks. To pass, students must achieve at least an 80% average (3.2 on a 4.0 scale), or no license is awarded.

Maryanne Stasko, Nuclear Engineer: The people who work at and support our nuclear fleet come from all walks of life, but at the end of the day we all are someone’s parent or child. We have confidence in the abilities of our teammates to keep our communities safe, because we live there, too. And when we have family or friends with questions about nuclear power, we know we can rely on our teammates to share their knowledge in a manner that everyone understands.

Lee Ann Hamilton-Steiner, Nuclear Major Projects: I wish people knew the lengths our employees go to ensure our plants are always SAFE. People shouldn't attribute the safety of nuclear power plants to historic incidents. We are continually improving our plants to ensure the safety of the people and communities we serve. Because of the improvements we make we are able to continue providing SAFE and RELIABLE power.

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Hydro anniversary highlights importance of diverse, carbon-free energy portfolio

Mikayla Kreuzberger — Tue, 11 May 2021 17:00:00 GMT

Keowee Hydro Station, a two-unit 157-megawatt hydropower plant in Seneca, S.C., recently celebrated its 50th anniversary of generating clean, reliable energy for the Carolinas.

The station is part of Duke Energy’s Keowee-Toxaway Project, which includes Lake Keowee, Lake Jocassee and the Jocassee Pumped Storage Hydro Station. Hydropower plants are key to the company’s mission to provide sustainable, carbon-free energy and meet the goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Keowee is also adjacent to Oconee Nuclear Station, Duke Energy’s largest nuclear power plant and a reliable source of carbon-free energy.

Together, these generating stations in Upstate South Carolina highlight Duke Energy’s commitment to a diverse, increasingly clean generation portfolio. More than 40 percent of the electricity generated by Duke Energy in 2020 was from carbon-free sources, including nuclear, wind, hydro and solar.

Renewables like wind and solar, along with hydropower and nuclear energy help ensure a reliable and balanced generation mix now and in the future. Nuclear provides dependable, 24/7 power and complements other carbon-free energy sources, which are not always available.

Want to learn more about Duke Energy’s commitment to a carbon-free future? Check out the 2020 Sustainability Report.

Want to learn more about Keowee’s 50th anniversary? Read on.

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Advanced nuclear benefits may be worth exploring for a carbon-free future.

Karen Williams — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 20:35:00 GMT

The nuclear industry continues to evolve; as does the future for nuclear power generation. According to a 2021 article by World Nuclear Association, "around 10% of the world's electricity is generated by about 440 nuclear power reactors. About 50 more reactors are under construction, equivalent to approximately 15% of existing capacity. In 2019 nuclear plants supplied 2,657 TWh of electricity, up from 2,563 TWh in 2018. This is the seventh consecutive year that global nuclear generation has risen, with output 311 TWh higher than in 2012."

Projections for growth are mixed. The demand for carbon reductions is a motivator for growth while the high cost of construction of large plants is a deterrent.

There is a new generation of reactor designs that promises advantages that could make them more attractive in the decades to come. The new nuclear plants come in a variety of sizes and shapes, different makes and models. They all offer enhanced safety design features.

So, what are some of the key differences between the new nuclear designs?

First, some background. The reactors in operation today are mostly second-generation light water reactors (i.e., Gen II) – they use water to moderate the reactivity of uranium, allowing fission to occur. The fission process produces heat, turning water into steam, which is then used to spin a turbine generator to make electricity. Third-generation reactors add in new safety features which make the plants even safer. The two new AP1000s that are nearing completion at Southern Company’s Vogtle site are examples of Gen III+ reactors.

New reactors being designed today are considered fourth-generation design. Small modular reactors are essentially a miniature version of the light water reactors we use today, with the advanced safety features added in. The benefit of these is that they are small, which means they can be built with less capital and in less time, and they can be scaled to a variety of needs.

Fourth-generation reactors offer some new possibilities that are exciting. Again, there are many makes and models of fourth-generation or advanced reactors and some have been in development at our national laboratories for decades. One of the most interesting designs uses liquid sodium instead of light water.

Using sodium instead of water allows for faster reactions and that means higher temperatures – and much higher efficiencies. Combining a sodium fast reactor with a molten sodium storage system is interesting, because it retains heat for long periods. Another benefit of a sodium fast reactor is that it can be used to produce hydrogen efficiently. Hydrogen can then either be burned to generate electricity or stored in fuel cells to power vehicles or in other applications.

An advanced reactor like the sodium fast reactor design has all the added safety features from years of operating experience, and also offers some interesting additional features that could make them attractive as we build our carbon-free future.

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Every Day in Nuclear Energy is Earth Day

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 15:10:00 GMT

Earth Day began in 1970 as a “teach-in” to educate communities about the importance of the environment. Like Earth Day, what would become the nuclear fleet for Duke Energy was just emerging. While the connection between Earth Day and Duke Energy’s fleet wasn’t obvious at the time, both have benefitted the environment for decades.

In addition to the carbon-free benefits of nuclear energy, our sites have additional features for outdoor community use like the nature trails at Harris Nuclear Plant.

Normally, during Earth Day our employees would be active in the community with service projects, volunteerism and educational activities. However, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing precautions has prevented what was a normal course of business. What hasn’t changed is the business of clean power generation, which goes on at all six of our nuclear sites.

Nuclear is a part of other clean energy sources—hydropower, geothermal, wind and solar— that work together to reduce greenhouse gases in our atmosphere and improve the air we breathe. However, unlike those sources, nuclear energy produces more carbon-free electricity than all other sources combined, according to the Energy Information Administration.

Our sites are hospitable homes to a variety of wildlife like this pelican near Brunswick Nuclear Station.

Although only 10 percent of the world’s electricity is generated by nuclear energy, the majority of America’s clean energy comes from nuclear generation, making it critical to reducing carbon emissions. At 56 percent, no other source, renewable or otherwise, contributes as much to meeting U.S. energy demand without carbon emissions as nuclear energy. According to the Nuclear Energy Institute, the U.S. nuclear fleet saves our atmosphere nearly 506 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions; the equivalent of removing 110 million passenger vehicles from roadways.

Duke Energy has announced its commitment to the environment with the goal of cutting CO2 emissions in half by 2030 and striving for net-zero emissions by 2050. A central part of that strategy is the continued operation of carbon-free sources of electricity, including nuclear energy. The first stage is renewing the licenses for all six nuclear sites, where they can continue to save the environment a collective 54 million tons of CO2 emissions each year.

Duke Energy’s nuclear fleet is proud of the role it plays in serving as caretaker to the environment and all its inhabitants – whether in the sky, woods or water; from the mountains to the coast, from the high country to the low country.

Beyond existing nuclear, Duke Energy joined an advisory group for TerraPower and GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy’s Natrium reactor, which was one of two designs to receive funding through the Department of Energy’s Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program. This partnership is one of the examples of the innovative spirit of nuclear energy and may be a crucial piece of the puzzle for expanding nuclear generation into the latter part of the century and beyond.

Although there might not be many visible celebrations of nuclear energy at this year’s Earth Day, behind the scenes the nuclear plants that produce the most carbon-free electricity will be a celebration of environmentalism for past, present and future.

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Think Green this St. Patrick's Day!

Wed, 17 Mar 2021 14:10:00 GMT

What do nuclear energy and St. Patrick’s Day have in common?

They both celebrate green!

On St. Patrick’s Day, it’s hard not to be in a green state of mind. This year, when you reach for that green shirt, embrace your inner Irish and think “green” by thinking about nuclear energy’s clean, zero-carbon footprint.

Nuclear energy protects air quality by generating electricity without harmful pollutants like carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide, particulate matter or mercury. In the United States, nuclear energy provides more than 55 percent of our carbon-free energy, and it’s available 24/7 as a safe, clean, reliable energy source.

In the U.S., nuclear energy avoids emissions of more than 528 million metric tons of carbon dioxide each year – that’s more than the emissions of 111 million passenger vehicles, or all the passenger vehicles on the road in the U.S.

In 2020, Duke Energy’s six nuclear power plants together avoided the release of nearly 50 million tons of carbon dioxide (if that same generation was produced with coal, oil and natural gas).

Duke Energy recently announced it is speeding up its effort to reduce the effects of climate change with a new goal to cut carbon emissions from electricity generation to net-zero by 2050. This low-carbon future depends on many factors, including subsequent (or second) license renewal of all six Duke Energy nuclear plants. Duke Energy cannot achieve its aggressive carbon reduction goals without nuclear power.

So, what would it look like to achieve this “green” goal? By 2050, that means Duke Energy’s carbon-free generation would equate to removing 29 million vehicles off the roads. Essentially, Duke Energy’s commitment would be equivalent to removing all cars off the roads in California, North Carolina, Florida and Kentucky.

Nuclear energy will be essential to power our lives in a carbon-free energy future. So, don’t forget to thinking “green” this St. Patrick’s Day – think nuclear!

Think green, and reduce your own carbon footprint.

Nuclear energy is a carbon-free energy source that provides life-essential electricity to millions of energy users all over the world – all without any emissions. So, what does it mean to be carbon-free, and how can you reduce your own carbon footprint?

Your carbon footprint is the amount of carbon dioxide released into the air because of your own energy needs. You need transportation, electricity, food, clothing and other goods. Your choices can make a difference.

Swap old incandescent light bulbs for light-emitting diode bulbs (LEDs) or compact fluorescent lights (CFLs). They use less energy and last longer.
Turn off lights, TVs, computers, when you do not need them.
Unplug! Any electronic gadget you can turn on with a remote (TV, DVD player, Nintendo, Xbox) uses power even when it is "off." Appliances with a digital clock (like a coffee maker) or a power adapter (like a laptop computer) also suck power like a sneaky vampire. Plug these kinds of things into a surge protector or power strip that has an on/off switch. Then you can shut off all the power without unplugging each gadget.
Turn up the thermostat on the air conditioning when it's hot. Use fans if you're still hot. They use much less power.
Turn down the thermostat on the heating when it's cold. Sweaters, blankets, and socks are good for you and better for the planet.
Walk or ride your bike instead of taking a car everywhere. Even a 2-mile car trip puts 2 pounds of CO2 into the atmosphere! If you must ride, carpool.
Stay out of the drive thru! When you go to a fast-food place, ask your driver to park the car and let you walk inside, rather than sitting in a line of cars with the engine running and polluting.

Learn more: climatekids.nasa.gov/how-to-help/

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How nuclear can help close the gap to net zero carbon emissions

Wed, 22 Jan 2020 16:12:00 GMT

This article first appeared as a LinkedIn Influencer post on Jan. 9, 2020. Good is the first CEO of a regulated utility in the Influencer program, where her posts examine the industry’s evolving landscape. It has also appeared as an illumination article.

Around the world, there are important conversations going on regarding carbon emissions. Countries, companies and communities are all looking for solutions that move us toward a lower-carbon future.

As energy providers, we have an important role to play, and I’m pleased that utilities in the United States have already made solid progress on carbon emissions. At Duke Energy, we reduced our carbon emissions 31 percent since 2005, which meets or exceeds the standards of the former Clean Power Plan and the 2025 U.S. commitment to the Paris Agreement.

Yet it’s clear we must do more.

That’s why we refreshed our climate strategy, establishing a carbon reduction goal of at least 50 percent by 2030 and net zero by 2050. We have a clear line of sight to achieving the 2030 goal – with investments in renewables, storage, natural gas, energy efficiency and the retirement of coal plants serving as important solutions over the next decade. To reach our 2050 goal, we are strong advocates for investments in research and development to find new technologies necessary to close the gap to net zero – including enhanced storage, carbon capture and advanced nuclear.

But to meet these short- and long-term goals, there is a resource that is often overlooked – one that is carbon-free and runs 95 percent of the time. That resource is nuclear.

Nuclear provides more than half of our country’s carbon-free energy. For Duke Energy, nuclear accounts for more than 50 percent of our generation in the Carolinas. Nuclear is foundational to our climate strategy, and we are pursuing subsequent license renewals for our fleet. This will enable us to operate our plants for another 20 years.

Our ability to achieve these aggressive carbon reduction goals for the benefit of our customers and communities is dependent upon the reliability of nuclear energy.

Keeping our nuclear plants running will also help make the transition to cleaner energy sources more cost-effective. Case in point: A recent MIT study highlighted the high cost of powering the grid primarily with intermittent renewables and the importance of having diverse energy resources, like nuclear.

The conversation on carbon emissions will only accelerate in 2020 and beyond, and we’re committed to being part of the solution. But as we move forward, we believe nuclear deserves a seat at the table.

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Three reasons to love nuclear energy

Thu, 14 Feb 2019 14:05:00 GMT

Family. A favorite hobby. Your pet. When you think of the things you love, a power source is likely not at the top of your list – if it’s on your list at all. But, maybe our nation’s largest source of carbon-free electricity – nuclear energy – should be on your Valentine’s list this year.

Here are three reasons to love nuclear energy.

Nuclear energy is always available to help you do the things you love.

In 2017, Oconee Nuclear Station was in the path of a total solar eclipse, highlighting the value of energy diversity.

Life doesn’t stop when a storm hits or night falls. Nuclear power plants provide electricity independent of the time of day or the weather, making it an important part of our diverse energy mix in the Carolinas.

While there are many factors that contribute to the reliability of the electrical grid, having multiple options to meet customer demand at any given time plays a critical role. Nuclear plants’ unique refueling outage schedules allow them to produce electricity continuously for months and even years at a time, contributing to their efficiency and value to Duke Energy customers.

If you love clean air, nuclear energy must be a part of the energy mix.

Duke Energy is committed to a lower carbon future. But, we can’t achieve our goal of reducing emissions without nuclear energy. Other fuel sources, like coal and natural gas, can provide large amounts of energy around-the-clock, and many sources, like solar and wind, generate carbon-free electricity. Only nuclear energy does both.

During power generation, nuclear plants create no greenhouse gas emissions nor do they emit other gases that contribute to the formation of acid rain. Plus, they’re great places for plants and animals to thrive.

Nuclear workers love the communities where they live.

Duke Energy’s nuclear plants continue to be economic drivers for their communities, paying significant taxes and providing partnership opportunities. Our nuclear fleet also employs more than 5,000 Duke Energy workers full-time. Additional contract workers are needed to support major project work and planned refueling and maintenance outages, which can give communities an extra economic boost.

For the small communities around each of our six nuclear stations, nuclear workers make a big impact, too. Not only do they live, shop and recreate in the communities around our nuclear plants, they also donate their time to support local causes.

It may not the most glamorous energy source, nor the most talked-about, but nuclear is an energy source to love.

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Nuclear’s role in a cleaner energy future

Fri, 05 May 2017 17:49:00 GMT

You may have heard about the Duke Energy Sustainability Report. But, if you haven’t seen the 2016 report yet, it’s worth a read. The report tracks the company’s progress on sustainability goals and programs and offers a look at how the company is progressing toward those goals.

Arguably one of the most important goals is Duke Energy’s commitment to cutting carbon dioxide emissions by 40 percent from the 2005 levels by 2030. This decade alone, a combination of closing coal-fired power plants, building cleaner natural gas plants and increasing renewable generation have led the company to already be nearly 30 percent below that 2005 figure.

What may be less obvious is the role our nuclear plants play in our lower carbon commitment – and it’s a big one. Duke Energy generates about 38 percent of its electricity through carbon-free sources and nuclear currently accounts for most of the total.

In case you don’t have time to read all of the details, here are the nuclear highlights.

We’ve operated nuclear power plants since the early 1970s and our fleet keeps setting records.
Our fleet set a new capacity factor of 95.72 percent. 2016 was the 18^th consecutive year our fleet had a 90-plus percent capacity factor.
The plants produced 90 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity. That’s enough to power 3,600 small towns for a year.
Our fleet accomplished all of this by having shorter refueling outages and longer operating runs. Our nuclear workers were very busy last year.
Overall, our nuclear plants accounted for one-third of the electricity Duke Energy generated in 2016.
And all of that electricity was produced carbon free. In fact, since 2005, our company has reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 29 percent thanks in no small part to our nuclear plants.

You can explore the full Sustainability Report online.

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Earth Day kick-starts a series of nuclear volunteer events

Sat, 22 Apr 2017 17:16:00 GMT

In honor of Earth Day, our nuclear team is participating in volunteer projects and events to highlight our commitment to environmental stewardship and lending a hand to those in need. Over the next few weeks, you’ll find teammates nurturing marine birds; helping protect endangered sea turtles; and planting a garden for migrating butterflies – just to name a few of the projects getting underway.

A few highlights:

Oconee Nuclear Station (Seneca, S.C.)
Our World of Energy education center at Oconee Nuclear Station is rolling out the welcome mat for the thousands of migrating butterflies that pass through Upstate South Carolina each summer. With generous help from Keep Oconee Beautiful Association (KOBA), staff recently finished a major upgrade of the butterfly garden, re-planting native pollinators and freshening up the grounds ahead of butterfly migration season.

The butterfly garden’s grand re-opening coincides with the KOBA/World of Energy Earth Day in May Festival on Saturday, May 6, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Families and school groups from communities around Oconee Nuclear Station can create arts and crafts with recycling materials; view an exhibition bee hive; learn about vermiculture (the science of composting with worms); enjoy an outdoor story-time; and learn all the ways they can take care of their piece of the planet, among other fun activities.

Catawba Nuclear Station (York, S.C.)
Catawba Nuclear Station is participating in the City of Rock Hill’s 27^th Earth Day Birthday celebration on Saturday, April 29, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Museum of York County. The big attraction is Catawba’s “osprey cam,” housed on the Carolina Raptor Center website. Duke Energy teammates will distribute seed packets and share information about our commitment to a clean environment.

McGuire Nuclear Station (Huntersville, N.C.)
May 12 is volunteer day for teammates at McGuire. That morning, volunteers from the plant are fanning out across the community. A group of volunteers will spend their time preparing meals at the Mooresville Soup Kitchen – no cooking skills required! – while another will participate in an environmental clean-up project at Long Creek, just north of Charlotte.

Brunswick Nuclear Plant (Southport, N.C.)
On the North Carolina coast, Brunswick sponsors a Sea Turtle Protection Program, which invites volunteers to the beaches to serve as “nest parents” for baby sea turtles. For Earth Day, Brunswick teammates will be out on Oak Island to spread the world about their special affinity for sea turtles, sponsorship of local sea turtle protection organizations and participation in volunteer projects meant to keep the sea turtle population healthy and strong.

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Celebrate Earth Day with some of our favorite environmental stories

Wed, 05 Apr 2017 12:19:00 GMT

From clean air generation to environmental education, our nuclear fleet and the employees who support it ensure nuclear power provides benefits for our world in many ways. With Earth Day quickly approaching, we collected a few of our favorite articles related to environmental stewardship around our nuclear plants.

1. Nuclear: A clean air energy leader – If you were to guess which low-carbon energy source produces the most electricity in the U.S., would you choose nuclear?

2. How to preserve and fisherman’s paradise – There's great fishing at Harris Lake in North Carolina thanks to Duke Energy biologists, who help maintain the health of lakes near nuclear and other power plants.

3. Solving the lower carbon puzzle – There is already strong momentum toward a clean-energy future. But, we have more to do, and it will take changes across the energy system.

4. Wildlife detectives make fascinating finds at nuclear plant – N.C. Wildlife Federation teaches kids the beauty of nature.

5. Boiling turtles – It takes a village to ensure sea turtles have a successful start to life.

6. The wild side of nuclear facilities -When you think of nuclear power plants, recreation may not be the first thing that comes to mind. But at and around nuclear sites you can find numerous ways to enjoy nature.

7. Nuclear energy in 60 seconds: Good for you and the environment – Watch our guide explain the environmental benefits of nuclear energy in just 60 seconds.

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Boiling Turtles

Tue, 30 Aug 2016 19:27:00 GMT

The text came Monday morning that there were finally signs that the sea turtle nest we were monitoring was ready to “boil” with babies. After nearly two weeks of sitting with the nest every evening the volunteers were ready for the big event.

In the days leading up to the “boil” the small cadre of volunteers learned the answers to all the standard questions:

How long does it take: On average, the nest will hatch between 55-65 days from when it was laid.

How do you know where it is: Each morning volunteers patrol the beaches and look for the signs of a “crawl.” The nest is then marked and a single egg is harvested for DNA testing.

How many eggs are there: On average, about 100 per nest.

As part of the educational outreach mission of the sea turtle protection program, the volunteers learn about and subsequently, are called upon to explain that the turtles return to the place of their birth once they mature. Unfortunately, only about one in a thousand make it. Hence the need to make every effort to help the small creatures have an event-free start to their journey.

Sponsoring the nest was Lisa Nolin’s idea and we started planning for it months in advance. She was retiring from the nearby Brunswick Nuclear Plant and had spent the last three years getting qualified as a nest parent. This year she would parent her own nest and she would need help. Support came from her previous co-workers -- several Duke Energy employees signed up and with them, their friends and family and several local Duke Energy retirees, to form a solid team.

The volunteers are most surprised by the volume of people to interact with. Each night there were 30-50 people who would stop by the nest and ask about the turtles. “One night” says Karen Williams, one of the volunteers, “we had about 400 people surrounding the nest because we just happened to be in the area where they hold their regular monthly beach parties. We were all relieved that the turtles did not come that night!” When the nest did hatch, there were easily 250-300 people. Jeff Nolin, another volunteer and Nest Co-Parent, commented on the “effectiveness of text messaging for spreading news quickly.”

The night of the boil was definitely an event. Volunteers arrived at about 5 p.m. and set up the nest. The "runway" was extended all the way to the waterline and built up small berms on each side to keep the turtles headed in the right direction. The number of people grew and grew until there were, in places, 5-6 rows deep of people eager to see a glimpse of a turtle. Two volunteers were assigned to count the turtles as they emerged and everyone else was to provide crowd control. The objective was to keep people and turtles separate from each other while also helping people experience the event and learn about turtles.

Each new arrival to the nest asked “what are you seeing?” At first, all we could see was the tip of a flipper. Hours later, we could see a head, then five heads, and then around 10 p.m., nearly 60 baby turtles tumbled forth from the sand and crawled to the ocean to begin their long journey. It was all over in about 20 minutes. Most of them had no problem, but one kept getting confused and would turn around. But the nest parents were able to get him headed the right way.

The nest parent volunteer project is just one example of how dedicated our employees are to protecting the environment and the creatures who depend on it. At the Brunswick Nuclear Plant, we have a special affinity for sea turtles. Operating for 40 years, there have been times when turtles got too close to our plant. But the company has invested millions to add barriers to keep turtles safe. Still, wildlife biologists and technicians monitor the plant surroundings daily. And we take it a step further by sponsoring the local sea turtle protection groups and volunteer projects like this.

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Nuclear energy in 60 seconds: Good for you and the environment

Duke Energy — Thu, 09 Jun 2016 10:23:00 GMT

As communities seek cleaner ways to provide power, more people are giving nuclear energy a second look.

This previous post highlights the air quality advantages of nuclear energy, but nuclear also benefits the planet in other ways. Watch our nuclear energy guide, Scott, explain why nuclear is an important part of our environmentally conscious energy mix.

This video is the second in a series on the benefits of nuclear energy. You can watch the first video here.

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New Earth Day Event Encourages Students to Explore Nature

Duke Energy — Wed, 27 Apr 2016 14:19:00 GMT

For decades, the Duke Energy nuclear fleet has been a dedicated environmental steward. From preserving land for public recreation, to maintaining healthy forests and protecting sea turtles, our nuclear sites have become caretakers of the land, water and wildlife around them. Part of that role includes educating local communities about the environment and the importance of protecting it.

To commemorate Earth Day this year, the EnergyExplorium at McGuire Nuclear Station hosted an inaugural Earth Day event for homeschool students. Despite the rain, more than 45 students and parents learned about local wildlife, composting and gardening through hands-on activities from Duke Energy and local environmental organizations.

Click on the pictures below for additional details about the event.

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Nuclear: A Clean Air Energy Leader

Duke Energy — Thu, 17 Dec 2015 09:16:00 GMT

If you were to guess which low-carbon energy source produces the most electricity in the U.S., what would you choose? Hydropower? Solar? That’s one of the questions the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) asked the public this fall.

The NEI opinion poll revealed that 85 percent agree “we should take advantage of all low-carbon energy sources, including nuclear, hydro, and renewable energy, to produce the electricity we need while limiting greenhouse gas emissions.” However, most of those polled (70 percent) were unaware that nuclear power plants produce the most clean air electricity in the U.S.

Nuclear power plants provide the majority of low-carbon electricity in the U.S.

According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), nuclear energy generated about 63 percent of our country’s low-carbon electricity in 2014. But, not everyone knows this, despite the fact Americans say clean air is one of the most important considerations when it comes to electricity generation.

Like renewables, nuclear power plants produce no carbon emissions when they generate electricity. This is particularly important in states like South Carolina, where nuclear provides more than half the state’s electricity. Independent studies from organizations like the National Renewable Energy Laboratory show that nuclear energy’s life-cycle carbon emissions are comparable to renewable energy sources, too. Life-cycle assessments take into account construction, mining, processing and disposal of fuel, routine operation and facility decommissioning.

Nuclear energy also has the advantage of being the only low-carbon power source capable of generating electricity 24 hours a day, every day of the year. As former Secretary of Energy Spencer Abraham recently explained at a Nuclear Matters event in South Carolina, the state’s nuclear energy plants “are critical for ensuring dependable electricity service for consumers.” Secretary Abraham also emphasized nuclear energy’s importance in reaching carbon reduction goals in the Carolinas noting that it’s "reliable, efficient and not intermittent.” Nuclear plants, therefore, help provide the power we need without the air emissions we don’t need.

All sources of low-carbon electricity are important for a clean and reliable energy future. As Duke Energy continues to invest in renewable energy, our nuclear plants remain an important part of our diverse mix of energy sources to provide increasingly clean electricity for our customers.

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The Wild Side of Nuclear Facilities

Duke Energy — Wed, 09 Sep 2015 14:18:00 GMT

When you think of nuclear power plants, recreation may not be the first thing that comes to mind.

But at and around Duke Energy’s nuclear sites you can find numerous places to hike, fish, picnic and bird-watch. In fact, Duke Energy’s nuclear sites have a history of environmental protection, even before the plants began operating.

As you may recall from a previous post, nuclear power plants use water in a variety of ways, including for cooling. Once steam is used to generate electricity, it flows across tubes containing cool lake or river water that condenses the steam for reuse – the steam and lake/river water do not mix. The lake or river water is then cooled and returned to its original source.

The need for cooling water means that nuclear sites are located on bodies of water. With the exception of Brunswick Nuclear Plant located on the Cape Fear River, all of Duke Energy’s nuclear facilities sit on manmade reservoirs specifically created to support power generation. Not only do these lakes help provide electricity, however, but also are enjoyed by the public as scenic places to enjoy the outdoors.

Families enjoy the sunset at the World of Energy's public fishing pier on Lake Keowee

McGuire Nuclear Station, for example, offers a public access fishing area on Lake Norman at its EnergyExplorium. Through its “Fish-Friendly Piers” program, Duke Energy worked with the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission to construct artificial fish habitat at McGuire’s EnergyExplorium boat dock to attract more fish to the area.

The World of Energy at Oconee Nuclear Station also provides a fishing pier on Lake Keowee and encourages families to explore the outdoors through free events. At itsannual Hunting and Fishing Day celebration in September, children take advantage of the plant’s close proximity to Lake Keowee by learning how to fish and kayak, among other activities.

One of many mountain bike trails at Harris Lake County Park

Harris Lake is a popular spot for boating, water-skiing, fishing and even duck hunting in New Hill, N.C. Constructed to provide cooling water to the Harris Nuclear Plant, the lake is accessible by two boat ramps operated by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission. Duke Energy also leases land to Wake County, which operates Harris Lake County Park. There you’ll find unique features like mountain biking trails, a disc golf course and environmental education programs.

Similarly, residents and visitors to Hartsville, S.C. can take advantage of public boat ramps and a fishing pier on Lake Robinson, adjacent to the Robinson Nuclear Plant. Those wishing to enjoy the lake’s rustic scenery for more than one day can stay overnight in one of the campgrounds along its shores.

Perhaps less well known, Catawba Nuclear Station maintains Catawba park, which sits on the banks of Lake Wylie. While the park is typically open only to employees for boating, fishing and picnicking, it will be accessible to the public for a community barbeque this October.

The bodies of water near Duke Energy’s nuclear sites also attract a variety of wildlife. Birds such as osprey are often sighted near McGuire, Catawba and Oconee nuclear stations and beachgoers in Southport, N.C. - near the Brunswick Nuclear Plant - can spot migrating sea turtles during the summer months.

Butterfly garden and wildlife habitat at the EnergyExplorium

The water isn’t the only way to enjoy nature near Duke Energy’s nuclear sites, however. Nature trails at the World of Energy and EnergyExplorium offer opportunities to view native plants and wildlife. If you’re simply looking for a place to have lunch, both education centers also have picnic shelters. On your visit to the EnegyExplorium, you can even try your hand at geocaching.

Even for those who don’t typically spend their fee time outside, outdoor movies at McGuire and Oconee nuclear stations are a great way to relax outside with friends and family.

However you like to enjoy the outdoors and as you plan your next excursion, consider the recreational options provided by your nearby nuclear site. You might be surprised at what you find.

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Lake Temperatures Near Nuclear Plants

Duke Energy — Tue, 12 May 2015 16:21:00 GMT

Duke Energy actively monitors water quality year-round.

Nuclear stations generate electricity by heating water to create steam to turn turbines, which turn a generator. As part of electricity production, these stations need a way to cool this steam back to water for reuse. Because of this water need, nuclear plants are typically located near lakes, rivers or the ocean. However, because these lakes and rivers are used for other purposes, such as drinking water, irrigation and industrial uses, Duke Energy established environmental programs decades ago to protect aquatic life.

The cooling water, drawn through large pipes by pumps, never touches the steam. Cool lake or river water circulates through pipes, cooling, or condensing, steam back to water when the steam falls on the pipes (similar to how a car radiator works). In the process, the cooling water picks up a little heat from the steam and is warmer when it is returned to the lake. However, to ensure water quality of the water used, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and state agencies regulate the temperature of the water that is discharged. The state sets discharge temperature limits for each plant. These limits are established using scientific data and research. Compliance with these limits is ensured through regular data collection and reporting by the utility.

Duke Energy teammates Linda Hickok (Water Resources Manager) and Bill Foris (Lead Scientist) put things in perspective through the following Q&A.

Q: Why are lake temperature limits in place for power plants?

A: Temperature limits are in place to protect the aquatic ecosystem of the water body receiving the heated discharge. The limits are set at levels that allow integration of the heat into the ecosystem without disrupting fish, plant and other aquatic organisms in the lake.

Q: What lake discharge temperature limits must nuclear plants adhere to?

A: Temperature limits are established during a permitting process based on site-specific conditions. The site permit contains these specific limits.

Q: Who regulates the limits and how are they regulated?

A: Typically, permits are issued by the state as the designated agency to implement federal and state laws and regulations governing wastewater and thermal discharges. The permitting agency reviews monitoring data and conducts inspections to assess permit compliance.

Q: Why is it important for stations to stay within permitted limits?

A: To ensure protection of the aquatic life and water quality within the water body (lake, river, etc.).

Q: How does Duke Energy ensure temperature limits are not exceeded?

A: In most instances, water temperature of the thermal discharge is measured at least hourly year-round to assure the site-specific limit is met. This data is reported to the state on a regular basis, and is readily accessible by nuclear station personnel for reviewing and making operational decisions .

Q: How does Duke Energy maintain healthy aquatic life?

A: Duke Energy actively monitors the water quality, plankton and fishery of reservoirs throughout the year, and submits annual reports to the state summarizing these important environmental attributes.

Q: Is there any type of special permit requirement for nuclear stations?

A: The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit includes requirements for discharge quality (limits on chemicals or heat in the discharge water), monitoring and reporting. NPDES is a program created by the federal Clean Water Act to regulate wastewater and thermal discharges from industrial and municipal facilities.

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Duke Energy Nuclear Employees Participate in Earth Day

Duke Energy — Tue, 21 Apr 2015 13:55:00 GMT

Earth Day is April 22, 2015. Each April 22, for the past 45 years, citizens around the world have honored a commitment for a clean environment by hosting festivals, rallies and environmental activities, all with support from a world-wide community.

Duke Energy and its nuclear employees also support a clean environment. Did you know that nuclear energy is America’s largest source of clean-air, carbon-free electricity, producing no greenhouse gases or air pollutants — 64 percent of carbon-free electricity is produced by nuclear energy.

In recognition of Earth Day this year, Harris Nuclear Plant near Raleigh, N.C., will be the host of local sixth graders for a program on nuclear, renewables and energy efficiency. This will be the first visit to the nuclear facility by many of these students.

Catawba Nuclear Station and Oconee Nuclear Station employees will be participating in roadside cleanups.

Employees at Catawba Nuclear Station, located in York, S.C., including members of the Catawba chapters of Women in Nuclear (WIN) and North American Young Generation of Nuclear (NAYGN), will spend the afternoon picking up litter along the road to the plant, as part of adopt-a-highway program.

Employees at Oconee Nuclear Station, located in Seneca, S.C., in partnership with the Keep Oconee Beautiful Association (KOBA), will participate in the Adopt-A-Spot program by l doing a litter sweep along the roads near the plant's entrances. In addition, Oconee Maintenance Department employees have “adopted” their own section of local highways as part of their commitment to the community and the environment.

Duke Energy nuclear employees keep local roads clean.

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The Birds. At Duke Energy's Nuclear Plants

Duke Energy — Fri, 23 Jan 2015 10:16:00 GMT

Birds migrate for the winter. But where do they migrate? Would you believe more than 150 species migrate to North and South Carolina? And many of those nest near or on the lakes that Duke Energy's nuclear plants sit on.

At McGuire Nuclear Station on Lake Norman, the rufus hummingbird, red-necked grebe, western grebe, and black tern have been spotted.

Terns have been spotted near McGuire Nuclear Station on Lake Norman.

At Catawba Nuclear Station on Lake Wylie, brown pelicans have been spotted.

"Birds species from bald eagles to ruby-throated hummingbirds nest along the shores of the Catawba River Corridor and surrounding areas," said Duke Energy Environmental Scientist Mark Auten. "There are a number of birds that frequent the Carolinas during the winter season that are not traditionally found in this area year-round."

For example, the common loon spends the winter months fishing on many of the Catawba lakes, as do several species of gulls. And many wading birds such as herons and egrets can be seen in the shallows around all the lakes and nesting on many islands and along the shore lines — often in pine trees.

An osprey cam is being installed at Catawba Nuclear Station for the public to watch the osprey nesting.

"Duke Energy has an active and comprehensive Avian Protection Plan," Auten said. "Take the osprey for example. Prior to 1984, no ospreys were known to be nesting on Lake Norman. Now there are 65 active Osprey nests on or surrounding the immediate area of Lake Norman."

Between 1984 and 1987, in cooperation with the Carolinas Raptor Center, North Carolina State and Federal Agencies, Duke Energy helped relocate 12 young ospreys from Mattamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge and raise them on hacking platforms so that these birds would leave an imprint on the area and return after migration.

Osprey at Catawba Nuclear Station.

And at Catawba Nuclear Station, there is an active osprey nest on one of the communication towers on site. Duke Energy is in the process of putting a live-feed camera near the nest so the public can watch the Osprey online.

At Marshall Steam Station, Duke Energy and the local Wildlife Federation groups have put up nesting platforms for the great blue herons.

Not only does Duke Energy have an Avian Protection Plan, the company also has a Migratory Bird Hotline.

"Duke Energy’s Midwest, Carolinas West, Carolinas East and Florida have company hotlines to report all bird incidents that occur in or on the Duke Energy system ," Auten said. "Duke Energy annually reports all avian incidents and nest removal and relocations to the local state and federal agencies and maintains avian permits for these incidents."

A cormorant spotted on Lake Wylie near Catawba Nuclear Station.

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