FAQs
Q: What is radiation?
A: Whether from nuclear energy, medicine or else-where, radiation is a mysterious substance to most people. Radiation is energy that travels in rays or particles. While it is invisible to our senses, it is actually very easily measured.
Natural radioactivity is found in everything from water, soil and air to the food we eat. It even naturally exists within our own bodies. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas which escapes from the earth's crust. Other sources of radiation include x-rays used for medical purposes. Alpha, beta and gamma radiation are a part of the natural background radiation of the earth. They are also exactly the same type produced by nuclear power plants.
Q: Is exposure to radiation regulated at SONGS?
A: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency sets strict standards to protect the public from radiation, including that produced at nuclear power plants. These tough regulations are based on recommendations of respected scientific groups from around the world and are enforced by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Federal regulations include limits set on exposure to workers within a nuclear power plant. In addition, SONGS has an even more strict set of standards in place to further ensure worker protection. Concern for worker safety is shown by strict standards and employee training to minimize radiation exposure.
Q: What type of fuel is used in a nuclear power plant and how does it compare to other fuels for creating electricity?
A: Generating power efficiently and cleanly for a growing population and economy in Southern California continues to be a challenge. While conservation of power by consumers, low-cost power purchases from outside the region, and use of developing alternate and renewable resources all help meet energy needs, they are only part of the answer.
The energy produced from nuclear power at SONGS saves the equivalent of 20-25 million barrels of oil each year for other important uses such as manufacturing and transportation. In this way, the plant helps conserve diminishing supplies of coal, oil and natural gas.
Nuclear energy continues to play an important role in providing low-cost, clean energy without dependence on fossil fuels.
One low-cost pellet of uranium 235 -- weighing a few ounces -- produces the same amount of energy as 140 gallons of oil, 150 gallons of gasoline, 2,000 pounds of coal or 17,000 cubic feet of natural gas.
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