Know Your Neighbor: Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant
Part 2: Safety, Preparedness, and Community Impact
Holly Springs, NC, Feb. 14, 2025 — For many Holly Springs residents, living near a nuclear power plant can raise understandable concerns. What happens in the event of an emergency? How safe is the facility? These questions are not just valid—they’re essential. Fortunately, safety and preparedness are at the core of Shearon Harris’s operations.
The plant operates under the strict guidance of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), undergoing regular inspections, rigorous safety evaluations, and ongoing personnel training to ensure minimal risks. Over the decades, Shearon Harris has encountered a few incidents, none of which harmed the public. One of the most notable events occurred in 1989, when a transformer fire broke out, requiring the efforts of 30 firefighters. More recently, in 2013, a quarter-inch crack was discovered in a reactor sensor, leading to a precautionary shutdown. While these events highlight the importance of vigilance, they also demonstrate the plant’s commitment to responding swiftly and transparently.
One of the most critical aspects of nuclear safety is emergency preparedness. Duke Energy works closely with local and state emergency management officials to ensure adequate plans are in place. Residents living within a 10-mile radius of the plant receive annual informational packets detailing evacuation routes, safety procedures, and instructions on what to do in the rare event of an emergency. Additionally, siren tests are conducted quarterly, with a full-volume, three-minute test occurring yearly. These efforts ensure that Holly Springs residents remain informed and prepared for any situation.
While serving an industrial function, Harris Lake has also become one of Wake County’s most cherished recreational destinations. The 680-acre Harris Lake County Park, located along its shores, offers miles of hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and a renowned disc golf course. It’s a place where families gather, athletes train, and nature lovers soak in the serene beauty of one of the region’s largest bodies of water. However, it’s important to note that due to its proximity to the plant, there are some restrictions in place—swimming is prohibited, and certain boating activities are regulated to ensure public safety and environmental preservation.
Through a balance of strict safety protocols, ongoing community engagement, and the natural beauty of Harris Lake, Shearon Harris has become more than just a power plant—it’s an integral part of the Holly Springs community.
What's next: In Part 3, we will explore what the future holds for Shearon Harris and Harris Lake, including potential decommissioning, site repurposing, and how the community might continue to benefit from the area in the years to come.