By splitting or fusing atoms, nuclear energy can generate a large amount of energy effectively. Learn more about nuclear energy and how we regulate it.
How nuclear energy works
Nuclear fission comes from splitting atoms to release heat. This heat then becomes steam, which spins a turbine to generate electricity. While nuclear fission doesn’t produce greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change, the technology uses radioactive materials that facilities need to carefully contain and dispose of.
Nuclear fission power plants have one or more reactors, which use fission to turn elements like uranium or plutonium into energy. They’re surrounded by large buildings that stop radiation from escaping. Cooling systems keep reactors from overheating, and there are multiple systems to ensure safety. At the end of the process, these facilities securely store any waste to protect people and the environment.
Small modular reactors (SMRs), also known as advanced reactors, are a new type of fission reactor that uses premade parts for easier construction. Factories build these parts and ship them to the facility’s operational site, where workers put them together. There are several designs, many of which the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) still needs to license. Developers expect SMRs to be safer and less costly than the large power plants of the past.
Fusing atoms can also produce energy using the same process that powers the Sun. However, there are currently no fusion reactors. Once ready for commercial use, nuclear fusion will offer safer nuclear energy with less waste.
How we oversee nuclear energy
Nuclear fission power plants – including large power plants like Columbia Generating Station and SMRs – must come to us for certification.
When fusion energy facilities become commercially viable, they won’t need our approval. However, these facilities may choose to come to us for certification through our siting process.
