Peach Bottom is co-owned by Exelon Generation and Public Service and Gas of New Jersey. Exelon Nuclear operates the two of three units at Peach Bottom that are currently in operation. Both Units 2 and 3 are boiling water reactors each capable of generating 1,140 megawatts (MW) of electricity. These units began commercial operation in 1974.
Unit 1, which is no longer active, was a 40-megawatt experimental High-Temperature Helium-Cooled and Graphite-Moderated reactor. During its 7-year life (1967-74), Unit 1 provided valuable technical and cost data to U.S. utilities for application to larger plants.
Committed to Safety
Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station, like all U.S. nuclear energy facilities, is based on a “defense-in-depth” design, which means there are redundant layers of safety. There are multiple layers of safety systems to provide water to the reactor core. These safety systems, and their backup safety systems, are powered by multiple and redundant power sources. Nuclear energy plants are built with multiple physical barriers, including thick, steel-reinforced concrete walls around the reactor to contain radioactive materials.
Our employees are personally committed to safety. They are highly-skilled workers and continually receive training to make our safe work practices even safer. We have a culture of continuous learning and implement lessons learned from operating experience to continue to operate safe nuclear energy facilities. Each employee has 100 percent accountability. We welcome strict, daily oversight by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). We work with the NRC to ensure that all regulations are complied with - and exceeded.
Learn more about the safety of Exelon's nuclear energy plants.
Generating More Low-Carbon Electricity
As part of Exelon 2020, Exelon Nuclear launched a series of planned power uprates across the company's nuclear fleet that will generate additional generation capacity within 8 years without turning a spade of earth. Uprate projects improve the efficiency and increase electricity output of a nuclear generating unit through upgrades to plant equipment. The projects take advantage of new production and measurement technologies, new materials and learning from a half-century of nuclear power operations.
Scheduled Construction
Peach Bottom Atomic Power Plant recently replaced all six of its main power transformers as part of Exelon's commitment to safety and long-term equipment reliability at the station. The $87 million project will help ensure the continued production of clean, safe and reliable electricity for the Mid-Atlantic region.
Project Contact Information
Lacey Dean, Peach Bottom Communications
(717) 456-4818 or lacey.dean@exeloncorp.com
Emergency Planning
Peach Bottom employs a sophisticated emergency response plan to protect public health and safety approved by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and the commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Emergency Planning includes coordination with local and state municipalities.
Supporting the Local Economy
The majority of Peach Bottom’s approximately 800 employees and additional contractors live in York and Lancaster Counties in Pennsylvania. The power plant’s annual payroll is about $60 million. During refueling outages, Peach Bottom employs more than 1,000 temporary contractors who boost the local economy during their stay.
Community Involvement
Peach Bottom aims to be a good neighbor and is very active in the local community.
- Sponsorship. The Plant supports several community events, including the Delta-Cardiff Heritage Festival and the Mason-Dixon Fair.
- Charitable Giving & Volunteering. The Plant also makes charitable donations to the South Eastern School District, March of Dimes, American Red Cross, Christmas Adopt-A-Family Program, Mason-Dixon Community Services, Delta Senior Center, York County Food Bank, and the Delta-Cardiff, Darlington and Airville Fire Companies. Peach Bottom employees give generously to the community through a variety of charitable activities including local United Way chapters. The plant also sponsors blood drives throughout the year, helping local hospitals. The plant’s Employee Association also sponsors fund-raising activities to support various community groups and agencies.