The General Electric-Hitachi Nuclear Energy (GEH) ESBWR is
the third major evolution of GE’s proven BWR design,
which has been used safely and successfully around the world for many years.
The
ESBWR features gravity-based, passive systems that dramatically improve safety
and simplicity, and eliminate the need for large numbers of pumps and other
systems that are part of more traditional reactor designs. It exceeds safety
criteria established by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission more than
100-fold over current BWR designs.
The
ESBWR will generate a net of 1,520 megawatts, enough energy for 375,000 homes
at peak demand in Virginia, with virtually no emissions that can contribute
to global climate change.
The
graphic below depicts the ESBWR building layout. For a larger
version with
a legend, click on the image.