History

In December 1951, an experimental reactor produced the first electric power from the atom, lighting four light bulbs. Nuclear energy has been used since 1953 to power U.S. Navy vessels, and since 1955 to provide electricity for home use.

Today, 30 countries worldwide operate more than 430 nuclear plants for electricity generation, providing about 16 percent of the world's energy.

In the United States, more than 100 commercial nuclear power plants produce electricity. These plants, on average, began operation in the early 1980s and are licensed to operate for 40 years with an option to renew for an additional 20. Nuclear power is the second largest source of electricity in the United States, supplying about 20 percent of the nation's electricity each year.

Susquehanna Steam Electric Station Construction Timeline

1970 - PPL announces construction plans for the plant and chooses a site.

1973 - The U.S. Atomic Energy Commission issues a construction permit and work begins in November. More than 5,000 people work to design, build and test the plant.

1982 - Unit 1 receives an operating license in July and generates its first electricity in November.

1983 - Unit 1 begins commercial service in June.

1984 - Unit 2 receives an operating license in March and generates its first electricity in July.

1985 - Unit 2 begins commercial service in February. Final cost to build the plant was $4.1 billion.

2003 - A new turbine installed on Unit 2 increases capacity by 50 megawatts.

2004 - A new turbine installed on Unit 1 increases capacity by 50 megawatts.