The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has granted a subsequent license renewal for Florida Power & Light Company’s (FPL) Turkey Point Nuclear Power Plant Units 3 and 4, allowing these units to operate safely until 2052 and 2053. This important decision ensures that the facility will continue to supply reliable, low-cost, and clean energy to FPL customers for the next three decades.
“This approval underscores our commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to deliver safe, dependable energy for years to come,” said Armando Pimentel, FPL president and CEO. “Turkey Point is vital to the local economy and a key component of FPL’s energy mix.”
Clean and Reliable Energy Source
Turkey Point Unit 3 began operations in 1972, followed by Unit 4 in 1973. Located 25 miles south of Miami, the plant occupies 11,000 acres, featuring protected mangrove swamps and 168 miles of cooling canals. It generates enough electricity to power nearly 1 million homes and businesses, playing a crucial role in grid stability and supporting Florida’s growing population while providing a habitat for the threatened American crocodile and other native species.
Initially, Turkey Point made headlines in December 2019 as the first U.S. nuclear plant to receive a subsequent license renewal for an additional 20 years. However, a 2022 NRC review required more information, resetting the previous license expiration dates to 2032 and 2033. Following a thorough reapplication process, FPL provided additional documentation for a site-specific environmental impact statement, leading to the restoration of the initial license approval.
Nuclear power is among the least environmentally impactful energy sources, producing zero carbon emissions. It accounts for 20% of FPL’s energy mix, making it Florida’s second-largest energy source.
“This approval reflects our rigorous efforts to exceed regulatory standards,” stated Mike Strope, Turkey Point Site Vice President. “Our team showed exceptional dedication during the reapplication process, ensuring Turkey Point’s continued safe and reliable operation in supplying zero-emissions electricity to FPL customers.”
Economic Impact on the Local Community
Turkey Point significantly contributes to the local economy, providing around 700 permanent jobs and an additional 2,800 during outage operations. The plant pays over $37 million in property taxes annually, benefiting local communities and public services.
Environmental Initiatives
Turkey Point’s operational excellence goes beyond power generation. Its Crocodile Monitoring Program has been instrumental in reclassifying the American crocodile from endangered to threatened by creating and preserving suitable habitats.
Currently under construction is the FPL Clean Water Recovery Center, built in partnership with Miami-Dade County. This facility will treat and reuse up to 15 million gallons of reclaimed water daily to cool the natural gas plant at FPL’s Turkey Point Clean Energy Center. One of the largest reuse projects in Florida, it is set to become operational soon, providing a cost-effective solution for recycling treated wastewater and conserving groundwater from the Floridan Aquifer.
Ongoing License Renewal Applications
In addition to Turkey Point, FPL’s St. Lucie Nuclear Power Plant and the Point Beach Nuclear Power Plant, owned by FPL’s sister affiliate NextEra Energy Resources, are currently undergoing their subsequent license renewal application processes, reaffirming the company’s commitment to reliable, low-cost, and clean energy.
