The United States is a massive country, covering over 3.79 million square miles. In terms of total area, it ranks within the top five largest nations in the world. Over 12,000 electric power plants scattered throughout the nation ensure that all 336 million residents receive electricity to power their homes and offices.
Electrical power plants generate power in one of two ways. Thermal plants create steam that turns giant turbines, which generate electricity that is then delivered to the consumer. In contrast, renewable energy power plants use kinetic motion in nature, such as falling water or wind, to turn turbines that generate electricity.
6 Largest Power Plants in the U.S. By Net Generation
According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the following six power plants generate the greatest amounts of electricity.
Palo Verde Nuclear Plant
The Palo Verde Generating Station is a nuclear power plant in Tonopah, Arizona. In 2022, the plant generated nearly 32 million megawatt-hours of electricity. For approximately three decades, the plant has been the largest electricity-producing station in the United States. It provides power to approximately four million people throughout the Southwest.
Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant
Located along the Tennessee River in Alabama, the Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant is owned entirely by the Tennessee Valley Authority. It is the third most powerful nuclear power plant in the United States and generated over 29 million megawatt-hours of electrical power in 2022.
Peach Bottom Clean Energy Station
The Peach Bottom Clean Energy Center produced approximately 22 million megawatt-hours of electricity in 2022, making it the third largest producer of electricity that year. Located in York Township, Pennsylvania, the plant was first ordered in 1958 and began operations in 1966.
South Texas Project Electric Generating Station
This nuclear power plant is located approximately 90 miles southwest of Houston and generated approximately 22 million megawatt-hours of electricity in 2022. Construction on the plant began in 1975, although delays and project overruns meant the plant did not go online until 1988.
Grand Coulee Dam
The Grand Coulee Dam is the only renewable power plant among the country’s top six electricity generators. Its largest powerhouse is the Nathaniel “Nat” Washington Power Plant, built in 1967.
The dam is located along the Columbia River in Washington and is the largest plant in the United States by capacity. In 2022, the Grand Coulee Dam generated approximately 21 megawatt-hours of electricity.
Oconee Nuclear Station
Finally, the Oconee Nuclear Station is near Seneca, South Carolina. In 2022, the plant generated approximately 21 megawatt-hours of electricity. Commissioned in 1973, the station became the first nuclear plant in the United States to have generated more than 500 million megawatt-hours of electricity over its lifetime.
What Are the Dangers of Living Near Power Plants?
Living near a nuclear power plant can be dangerous. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission suggests an evacuation zone of at least 10 miles in the event a nuclear power plant experiences an issue. Depending on the scope of any catastrophe, an exclusion zone of 50 miles may be warranted.
Even still, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention note that long-term health consequences from living near a nuclear power plant are possible. Radioactive materials that contaminate the air, water, or food can lead to various cancers and other diseases.
Accidents and Injuries Caused By Power Plants in America
Many Americans take electricity and the plants that generate them for granted. These behemoths are engineering marvels, with some single plants responsible for supplying electricity to millions.
Just because these plants are reliable does not mean they do not present risks. Those who live near or work at electric plants should remain cautious and aware of the potential for explosions, contamination, and the associated health consequences.
Contact the Undefeated Houston Plant & Refinery Accident Lawyers from Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact our Undefeated Plant & Refinery Accident attorneys in Texas at Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.
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