Westinghouse Electric Makes History at Plant Vogtle with New Fuel Technology
In a significant advancement for the nuclear energy sector, Westinghouse Electric Company has successfully inserted Lead Test Assemblies utilizing Low Enriched Uranium (LEU+) fuel at Unit 2 of the Alvin W. Vogtle Electric Generating Plant, located in Waynesboro, Georgia. This achievement marks a historic moment, as it is the first time LEU+ fuel has been commercially used in the United States. The initiative received vital support from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) as part of its Accident Tolerant Fuel (ATF) Program, in collaboration with Southern Nuclear, the plant’s operator.
The LEU+ fuel, which is enriched beyond 5%, aims to enhance the efficiency of nuclear power plants. It allows for longer fuel cycles and reduces operational costs by minimizing the frequency of refueling outages. This innovative fuel is essential in helping the industry meet its objectives for providing safe, reliable, and affordable clean energy to consumers.
Westinghouse produced its EnCore ATF Lead Test Assemblies using fuel with more than 5 weight percent LEU+, featuring chromium-coated cladding and AXIOM cladding. These new fuel assemblies were manufactured in Westinghouse’s facility in Columbia, South Carolina, specifically for Vogtle Unit 2.
Tarik Choho, president of Westinghouse Nuclear Fuel, expressed pride in reaching this milestone alongside the DOE and Southern Nuclear. He emphasized the importance of providing safe, reliable, and high-performance fuel to meet the long-term needs of their customers. "LEU+ fuel is a prime example of our commitment to reducing outages in nuclear plants," he noted.
Westinghouse stands out as a major supplier of nuclear fuel, offering a diverse range of products suitable for various reactor types, including PWR, BWR, AGR, and VVER. With advanced manufacturing facilities in the United States, Sweden, and the UK, the company is dedicated to delivering innovative fuel technologies that lower operational costs, enhance efficiency, and provide reliable supply options for its clients.
