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Frequently Asked Questions
What is nuclear energy?When atoms split, large amounts of energy ? called nuclear energy ? is released in the form of heat.
How does a nuclear power plant work?Unlike fossil-fueled plants, nuclear power plants do not burn fuel. The heat needed to create steam in a nuclear power plant comes from the splitting of uranium atoms ? a process called fission. During fission, even smaller particles of the atom, called neutrons, are released. The neutrons strike other uranium atoms, releasing additional neutrons that in turn split more uranium atoms. This ?chain reaction? provides the heat needed to produce steam and generate electricity.
How safe are nuclear power plants?Nuclear power plants are very safe. FPL Energy maintains very high operating standards at its nuclear power plants, and employee and public health and safety are always of highest priority Nuclear power plants are designed to emphasize the reliability of plant systems, redundancy and diversity of plant safety systems, and strong, multiple physical barriers that provide for radiological protection. Nuclear power operations also are monitored and regulated every day by U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission inspectors stationed at the site. Industry groups also promote excellent performance and share procedural and safety lessons learned by member companies.
What security measures are in place to protect nuclear power plants?The nuclear energy industry is one of the few industries whose security program is regulated by the federal government. Nuclear power plants are the most secure industrial facilities in the United States, including robust physical barriers such as concrete barriers and crash-resistant gates; a comprehensive security program, including high-tech intrusion detection and alarm systems; and highly qualified security officers who meet rigorous federal requirements.
How many nuclear plants are operating in the world? In the U.S.?There are more than 440 nuclear power plants operating in 30 countries worldwide, providing about 16 percent of the world’s electricity production. In the United States, there are 103 nuclear power plants that provide about 27 percent of America’s electricity. FPL Group operates five nuclear power plants -- St. Lucie and Turkey Point Plants in south Florida; Seabrook Station in New Hampshire; Duane Arnold in Iowa; and Point Beach in Wisconsin. What portion of FPL Energy’s portfolio does nuclear energy generate represent?Nuclear energy accounts for approximately 16 percent of FPL Energy’s total portfolio.
How many nuclear power plants does FPL Energy operate?FPL Energy operates three nuclear power plants: the Seabrook Station, a 1,220-megawatt pressurized water reactor located in New Hampshire, the Duane Arnold Energy Center, a 592-megawatt boiling water reactor located in Iowa, and Point Beach Nuclear Plant, a 1023-megawatt pressurized water reactor, in Wisconsin. |
