South Texas Project

The South Texas Project (STP) has had an important impact on Matagorda County and on much of the State of Texas as well by providing energy, economic benefits, community service and conservation of wildlife.

Public relations officer John Taylor says, "STP produces more electricity than any other nuclear power center in Texas. Among all the plants in the U.S.A., STP generates the fourth most electricity. It's one of the largest and most advanced plants of its kind in the world."

The two units at STP generate a combined total of 2,500 megawatts of electricity; over the past few years it has provided electricity for 1.5 million homes. STP sends out power to Houston, Corpus Christi, Austin and San Antonio, and even beyond the borders of Texas.

A particular advantage of all this power is that it is clean. The use of nuclear power has reduced greenhouse gases and CO2. "There's no smokestacks, no pollutants in the air," Taylor said. "Nothing is burned to make the electricity, as is done in coal-fired, fossil-fueled plants."

The social benefits brought by STP are enormous. "Our community record is something to be proud of," Taylor said. "We have employees on the boards of nearly every agency. If it happens here, STP people are involved."

STP has been extremely active in the United Way program, raising $160,000 in 1997 alone.

"Things have gone so well for us in recent years that folks haven't heard from us," he said. "People are often a little wary of nuclear plants, but we're fortunate to have a great deal of teamwork here. I think we're operating this plant as well as anybody could ask of us."

Bill Cottle, President and Chief Executive Officer at STP, has said, "There are a number of people from various organizations that deservedly take pride and satisfaction in the creation of the Texas Prairie Wetlands Project at the South Texas Project. These 110 acres of waterfowl habitat are more than a place for geese, ducks, egrets, herons and other birds. This project is a testament to what people can do together when they wish to enhance the community and protect the environment in which they live and work."