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A reactor pool glows blue from Cherenkov radiation, symbolizing the core of nuclear development and innovation in energy generation.

Nuclear Energy Technology and Innovation

We believe innovation thrives in a culture that empowers employees to bring their unique expertise and creativity to the table to solve problems and propel our industry forward together. 

At Southern Nuclear, we’re leading the way with groundbreaking innovations in advanced nuclear technologies. These advancements are driving clean energy solutions and increasing plant efficiency while providing our communities with a clean, reliable power supply.  

Day in and day out, our team enhances plant performance, safety and reliability through innovation and the power of our people.

Learn more about nuclear development
Looking down into a reactor vessel submerged in glowing blue water, capturing the heart of nuclear energy innovation in clean power production.

Advanced Fuels

Using state-of-the-art materials and design, enhanced Accident Tolerant Fuel technologies, like Lead Test Assemblies (LTAs), are expected to offer better performance during normal operation, transient conditions and unlikely accident scenarios.

Southern Nuclear operators monitor systems in a control room, emphasizing precision and training in nuclear energy technology operations.

Machine Learning and AI

Advanced software and modeling can help optimize predictive maintenance and repair schedules. Through advances in technology, equipment lifespan is increased and system shutdowns are reduced. The use of machine learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a forward-looking approach to enhance decision making, leading to more efficient and reliable plant operations.  

 

Engineers wearing Southern Nuclear hard hats collaborate inside a plant, advancing nuclear energy innovation through system upgrades.

Monitoring and Diagnostics

Innovative monitoring and diagnostic tools like wireless sensors and thermal cameras play a crucial role in improving nuclear power plant performance. These tools provide data on the condition of plant components, enabling operators to detect and address potential issues. Advanced monitoring and diagnostics also help reduce operating costs by preventing unnecessary downtime and contribute to the overall efficiency of nuclear energy production.

A person operates a drone via tablet, showcasing how Southern Nuclear uses drone surveillance in nuclear energy innovation and safety checks.

Unmanned Aircraft Surveillance

Unmanned aircraft surveillance devices perform inspections of nuclear power plant components and structures in hard-to-view areas, both inside and outside the plant, providing detailed visual and thermal imaging. Use of this technology improves personnel safety by reducing the need for manual inspections in hazardous environments. These devices enhance inspection efficiency and accuracy, ensuring that potential issues are identified and addressed efficiently. 

Innovation for the Future

We are committed to leading the industry with innovative technologies that enhance grid reliability and provide communities with clean, reliable nuclear energy.  Southern Nuclear received historic approval from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to be the first U.S. commercial reactor authorized to install advanced fuel exceeding 5% enrichment of Uranium-235.

Benefits of Advanced Nuclear Fuel:

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Efficient

Nuclear energy offers clean, efficient solutions for our grid. Through innovation and advanced fuels, like higher enriched uranium, the U.S. Department of Energy estimates that these technologies could result in approximately 30% less fuel used for the same energy output over the operating life of the existing light-water reactor commercial fleet.

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Reliable

Higher enriched uranium can last longer in a nuclear reactor, meaning the use of advanced nuclear fuel would extend the length of time between refueling outages from 1.5 to 2 years. This would make nuclear energy even more efficient and reliable for customers.

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Affordable

Using advanced nuclear fuel means fewer fuel assemblies are required, reducing costs and boosting efficiency. This innovation makes nuclear power production even more affordable, ensuring reliable energy solutions for you.

Southern Nuclear Accolades

At Southern Nuclear, we’re proud to be recognized as a trailblazer in the nuclear industry. With over 10 consecutive Top Innovative Practice Awards under our belt, we’re recognized throughout the industry for our leadership and innovative advancements.

A close-up of a 3D-printed metal fuel grid prototype, representing advanced nuclear energy technology used in next-generation reactors.

Engineers developed and implemented an online monitoring method that extends calibration frequencies of pressure transmitters.

Analog meters and controls line a simulated control room, illustrating legacy infrastructure in the evolution of nuclear energy technology.

The Nuclear Fuels group successfully led the installation of our country’s first-ever, 3D-printed Lead Test Assemblies with Additively Manufactured Debris Filtering Bottom Nozzles, a new technology manufactured by Westinghouse that improves fuel endurance. 

Vogtle 3 & 4 celebrated commercial operation as the largest generator of clean energy in the country and was recognized as the 2024 “Plant of the Year” by Power Magazine.

A wide aerial of Plant Vogtle shows cooling towers and units, illustrating large-scale nuclear development and carbon-free energy transition.

Vogtle 3 & 4 was awarded the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) Breakthrough Achievement Award.

A fuel rod assembly is shown in close-up, highlighting key components behind innovation in nuclear energy technology and power generation.
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Stay ahead with the latest breakthroughs and advancements. Explore how innovation is shaping the future of nuclear energy.

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