The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has given Dominion Energy Virginia the green light to extend the operating licenses of its North Anna Power Station for an additional 20 years. This means the two nuclear reactors in Louisa County, Virginia, will continue to generate clean energy for decades to come.
The North Anna Power Station, which supplies enough carbon-free electricity to power 500,000 homes, will now operate until 2058 and 2060 for its two reactors. This extension follows a similar approval given to Dominion Energy’s Surry Power Station in 2021, which allowed it to extend its operating license through 2053. Combined, these two power stations provide 40% of Virginia’s electricity and account for nearly 90% of the state’s carbon-free power.
Dominion Energy, committed to providing clean and reliable energy for its customers, has been working diligently to ensure the longevity of the North Anna facility. This includes a comprehensive list of upgrades, such as replacing the main generators and condensers, refurbishing reactor coolant pumps, and converting instrument and control systems to digital. Additionally, the company is implementing 80 enhancements to station procedures, including more frequent inspections and equipment testing.
The NRC’s approval followed a thorough review process, confirming the safety and reliability of the facility. Dominion Energy is planning to seek reimbursement for the costs associated with the license extension from the Virginia State Corporation Commission later this year.
North Anna’s two nuclear reactors are three-loop Westinghouse pressurized water reactors capable of producing nearly 2,000 megawatts at peak capacity. This translates to roughly 17% of the electricity supplied to Dominion Energy Virginia customers.
Moving forward, Dominion Energy’s affiliated companies are also looking to obtain NRC approval for 80-year operating licenses for their V.C. Summer Power Station in South Carolina and Millstone Power Station in Connecticut. These extensions reflect the company’s commitment to providing clean and sustainable energy solutions for the future.
