Initial licences issued by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for US commercial power reactors cover operation for up to 40 years; these can be renewed for an additional 20 years for an operating lifetime of 60 years. Subsequent licence renewals cover a further 20 years of operation beyond 60 years and focus on the management of plant ageing during the 60-80 year operating period.
Florida Power & Light’s St Lucie plant, based on Florida’s Atlantic coast about 195 kilometres north of Miami, comprises two pressurised water reactors, which began operating in 1976 and 1983, respectively. In 2003, the NRC extended the operating licences by 20 years to 2036 and 2043.
An extended power uprate was completed at St Lucie 1 and 2 in 2012 which raised the power output from each of the reactors from some 853 MWe to 1002 MWe, and the application for the subsequent 20-year licence renewal was filed in 2021.
Scott Bores, Florida Power & Light Company’s president, said: “This approval ensures that St Lucie will continue to provide safe, reliable, low-cost energy for generations to come. We are pleased that nuclear power will remain an integral part of Florida’s energy future and a vital contributor to the local and state economies.”
Carlos Santos, St Lucie site vice president, said: “This approval represents the culmination of rigorous efforts by our dedicated nuclear team to meet and exceed regulatory expectations.”
The plant generates enough electricity to power a million homes and businesses and provides around 400 jobs.
According to World Nuclear Association information, other US reactors already approved to 80 years as of January 2026 were: Turkey Point 3&4, Peach Bottom 2&3, Surry 1&2, North Anna 1&2, Monticello, Oconee 1-3, Virgil C Summer 1, Point Beach 1&2, Browns Ferry 1-3, and Dresden 2&3. Those with applications under review are HB Robinson 2 and Edwin I Hatch 1&2.
