Fact Sheet: Comanche Peak Nuclear Power Plant
Comanche Peak has been safely generating clean energy since it began operations in 1990 and is currently licensed to operate until 2053.
Nuclear plants are uniquely positioned to provide both carbon-free power and always-on baseload generation. Vistra has the nation’s second-largest competitive fleet of nuclear power plants at the center of its zero-carbon generation portfolio. Together, these four nuclear plants have the capacity to generate more than 6,500 MW of emission-free energy.
Key Facts:
- The 2,400 MW plant generates carbon-free, always-on baseload generation, increasing grid reliability for Texans.
- Comanche Peak is one of the lowest-cost and highest-performing nuclear power plants in the country.
- Construction of the plant began in 1974 and supported more than 10,000 jobs.
- The plant began operating on Aug. 13, 1990 and has never stopped generating electricity.
- Comanche Peak is operated by more than 600 employees and permanent contractors.
- The plant is the largest taxpayer in Somervell County, paying more than $40 million a year in state and local taxes.
- Comanche Peak sits on 8,500 acres between Glen Rose and Granbury, about 45 miles southwest of Fort Worth.
- Routinely, between 800 – 1,200 highly skilled technicians from across the country come to the plant during a "refueling outage." These contractors drive significant business for hotels, restaurants, and related businesses in the community.
Current Operations: 2,400 MW
Comanche Peak has reliably served Texas with carbon-free power since its operations began in 1990. Approximately 800 dedicated Texans keep the plant operating, and it is one of the highest-performing nuclear power plants in the country. The plant is a cornerstone of the state’s nuclear industry and will be an essential facility as Texas seeks to bolster the security, reliability, and resiliency of its grid.
Licensing Status: Approval Through 2053
Based on the plant’s track record of excellence, it has secured a license that will allow the plant to serve Texas for decades to come. In 2024, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission approved a request to extend the operation of Comanche Peak Nuclear Power Plant through 2053, an additional 20 years beyond its original licenses.
Economic Impact: Billions & Counting
Since 1990, Comanche Peak has contributed billions to neighboring communities through tax payments, payroll, purchases, and other expenditures. The plant is one of the largest private employers in the region and is the largest taxpayer in Somervell County.
The Future: A Growing Peak To Power Texas
The construction and commissioning of the two units at the plant provided more than 10,000 jobs for hardworking Texans. Vistra is exploring upgrades that would add additional generation capacity from the existing reactors, as well as studying the feasibility of adding new advanced nuclear reactors at the site.
Texas Nuclear Alliance
The Texas Nuclear Alliance announced that Vistra, which has the second largest competitive nuclear fleet in the country, has joined the Texas Nuclear Alliance as a Founding Member. The company owns and operates nearly half of the nuclear generation capacity in Texas.
“Vistra is a Texas giant – and a nuclear giant,” said Texas Nuclear Alliance President Reed Clay. “Vistra has been powering Texas homes with electricity from Comanche Peak Nuclear Power Plant for decades – safely and reliably. We are excited about Vistra’s decision to join our movement, and we know that Vistra will be a major player in bringing more needed nuclear to Texas.”
The Texas Nuclear Alliance is the only industry association in Texas dedicated to the advancement of nuclear technology in the state. The Alliance was formed with a singular mission: to make Texas the Nuclear Capital of the World.
Background
The Texas Nuclear Alliance announced that Vistra, which has the second largest competitive nuclear fleet in the country, has joined the Texas Nuclear Alliance as a Founding Member. The company owns and operates nearly half of the nuclear generation capacity in Texas.
“Vistra is a Texas giant – and a nuclear giant,” said Texas Nuclear Alliance President Reed Clay. “Vistra has been powering Texas homes with electricity from Comanche Peak Nuclear Power Plant for decades – safely and reliably. We are excited about Vistra’s decision to join our movement, and we know that Vistra will be a major player in bringing more needed nuclear to Texas.”
The Texas Nuclear Alliance is the only industry association in Texas dedicated to the advancement of nuclear technology in the state. The Alliance was formed with a singular mission: to make Texas the Nuclear Capital of the World.
Squaw Creek Park, located at Comanche Peak Nuclear Power Plant, provides an ideal setting for boat fishing, bank fishing and recreation.
Park Information
- Squaw Creek Park is owned and operated by Vistra.
- The reservoir serves as the cooling source for two nuclear power units.
- The lake’s surface area is approximately 3,200 acres and average depth is approximately 46 feet.
- There are five divided boat launches, a dock and numerous picnic areas with tables.
Reservations for boats and kayaks are required. Click here to make a reservation.
For more information, visit Luminant’s Squaw Creek Park webpage.