US-based nuclear energy operator Southern Nuclear has shut down unit 1 of the Joseph M. Farley Nuclear Plant in Dothan, Alabama, US, for a planned refueling and maintenance outage process.
Besides refueling, the company workers will also perform regular maintenance and testing, and make upgrades to the plant’s systems and components.
Farley’s staff of over 900 personnel is being assisted by employees from across the Southern Nuclear fleet in the refueling effort.
Additionally, 800 workers from Westinghouse, Williams and other partners are performing specialized tasks on site, providing economic stimulus to surrounding communities during the planning stages and throughout the outage.
Southern Nuclear Site vice president Tom Lynch said safety remains the company’s number one focus and priority during the outage.
Farley nuclear station comprises two units, each requiring new fuel every 18 months. The plant’s unit 2 will continue to safely generate electricity during the unit 1 outage, according to the company.