Southern Nuclear recently loaded a new higher enriched nuclear fuel into a commercial reactor for irradiation testing.
This is the first time fuel enriched above 5 percent will be irradiated in a U.S. commercial reactor.
The higher enrichment levels allow the fuel to last longer and operate at increased power levels — potentially leading to additional reliable power production at nuclear power plants across the country.
The advanced fuel was developed through the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Accident Tolerant Fuel Program to help improve fuel cycle safety and lower operational costs.