40 years later McGuire Nuclear Station continues to make a positive impact
Some say turning 40 is a gateway to old age. Others say life begins at 40. McGuire Nuclear Station workers view 40 as an important milestone since McGuire Unit 1 produced its first commercial electricity on Dec. 12, 1981. For the past 40 years, McGuire...
Illuminating the bright future of nuclear energy through employee advocates
Although there are a number of ways to reach operational goals and achieve Duke Energy’s net-zero carbon emission target, we cannot achieve these milestones without engaged employees leading the way.
We took some time to ask employees about their...
Fire prevention: why the fire brigade's training isn't too hot to handle
The best way to fight a fire is prevention. Did you know October is Fire Prevention Month? The goal of Fire Prevention Month (and week October 3-9) is to raise fire safety awareness and help ensure your home and family are protected.
Although Fire...
Capacity factor – it's a measure of reliability
One way the energy industry measures the reliability of power plants is by regularly calculating capacity factors.
Capacity factor measures how often a plant is running at maximum power. It’s expressed as a percentage and calculated by dividing the actual unit of electricity output by the maximum possible output. This ratio is important because it indicates how fully a generating unit is used.
This is how maintenance keeps nuclear in remarkable condition
We know that the great things in life always involve maintenance. Whether it is our relationships, our homes, cars, toys – anything! Enjoying the best in life always comes with a few chores.
The same is true with nuclear energy. To enjoy the benefits...
Training to ensure safe, reliable operations
Continuous learning is part of any profession. Our nuclear professionals are no exception; indeed, no industry requires as much continuous training as commercial nuclear power generation. Training is needed to ensure safe, reliable operations for the generation of life-essential electricity.
Giant turbines make the move to Catawba Nuclear Station
Catawba Nuclear Station in South Carolina took a big step in preparing for its refueling outage this spring.
The operative word being big.
Three low-pressure turbines, each weighing 184 tons, were transported by rail to Rock Hill then moved onto...
How nuclear plants weather storms
We are fortunate in the southeastern U.S. to have energy sources that are built to withstand the incredible forces of natural disasters like hurricanes: nuclear power plants.
How do nuclear plants stay youthful? Maintenance
While most of the nation’s nuclear fleet was built before 1990, it’s a mistake to label these safe, reliable plants as “aging."
Nuclear’s role in a cleaner energy future
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 ...