Vogtle 3, the third unit of the Vogtle nuclear power plant near Waynesboro, has been validated by the Nuclear Regularoty Commission (NRC). This announcement marks an important step towards the launch of Vogtle 3.
Vogtle 3 Receives NRC Approval
Georgia Power today announced a major milestone in the completion of Vogtle 3 in Georgia. This is the receipt of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s (NRC) Finding 103(g). This conclusion was confirmed in an official letter received by Southern Nuclear.
This means that Vogtle 3 will operate under the combined license and NRC regulations. Chris Womack, CEO of Georgia Power, is pleased:
« Today’s NRC finding helps us meet our commitment to build Vogtle 3 and 4 to the highest safety and quality standards. »
The issuance of Finding 103(g) follows years of work by the site team. Nearly 400 inspections, tests, analyses and acceptance criteria were required, as defined in Southern Nuclear’s license. Finally, the NRC conducted a thorough review of the facility before issuing the 103(g) finding.
Over the next few weeks, highly skilled nuclear technicians will continue work necessary to support the loading of fuel for Vogtle 3.
Afterwards, tests will take place. In addition, the operators will also take the plant from cold shutdown to initial criticality, then synchronize the unit with the grid and systematically increase the power to 100%.
In addition, the new Vogtle units are part of Georgia Power’s commitment to providing renewable energy. Once in service, Vogtle 3 and 4 are expected to power over 500,000 structures.
In addition, the new units will be clean energy sources that produce no air pollution.
