Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant

Calvert County is home to Maryland's only nuclear power plant. Named for nearby bluffs, Calvert Cliffs generates about 40% of Baltimore's Gas and Electric's capacity. Built in 1969, in 1998 it became the first nuclear power plant in the country to seek a license renewal. If granted its operation will extended past 2014 to 2036. A pressurized water reactor is used to generate electricity. Fission, caused by pellets of uranium oxide, heats the water running through a closed loop. This water then heats water in another loop, which transforms to steam, and powers the turbines. Bay water is used only as a coolant. Also considered of the most beautiful power plants, it is surrounded by a State Park and overlooks the Chesapeake Bay. On a clear day even it even offers a view of the Eastern Shore. The visitor's center is located in an old tobacco barn, built in 1818, and features exhibits energy and nuclear power and an overlook of the plant.

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References:

"BGE decides Calvert Cliff's future"; Country Roads;

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