U.S. Nuclear Industry Posted Strong Safety Performance in 2011, WANO Results Show

U.S. Nuclear Industry Posted Strong Safety Performance in 2011, WANO Results Show

by Lee Gliddon

WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. nuclear energy facilities in 2011 recorded the lowest number of unplanned shutdowns in more than a decade and achieved near-record levels of reliability and safety performance, according to safety and operations data compiled by the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) and the Institute of Nuclear Power Operations (INPO). U.S. companies achieved these milestones despite a year marked by severe weather events that caused extensive damage to communities in numerous states.