Large-scale nuclear refers to traditional, full-sized nuclear power plants that produce high amounts of electricity—typically 1,000 megawatts (MW) or more—using pressurized water reactors (PWRs) or boiling water reactors (BWRs). Importantly, the process emits no carbon during operation.
Texas is currently home to two operational nuclear power plants in Somervell and Matagorda Counties, each housing two reactors, totaling four reactors statewide, though there are dozens in the queue.
Texas’ own Comanche Peak Nuclear Power Plant, near Glen Rose, has been safely and reliably operating since the early 1990s, and South Texas Project, near Bay City, has been operating safely and reliably since the 1980s.
Large-scale nuclear projects offer tremendous benefits, including decarbonizing the grid, replacing retiring coal plants and providing firm, dispatchable power.
