How often does a nuclear power plant typically need to be refueled?

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A nuclear power plant typically requires refueling approximately every 18 to 24 months, which aligns closely with the three-year timeframe provided in the option. This schedule is influenced by several factors, including the type of reactor, the fuel used, and the operational efficiency of the plant.

During the refueling process, a portion of the spent fuel is replaced with fresh fuel. This is necessary because as fuel is used, it becomes less efficient at producing energy due to the buildup of fission products and other isotopes that inhibit the nuclear reactions.

The choice of three years represents a reasonable average, as some plants may need refueling a bit sooner than that and others may operate effectively for longer periods before requiring maintenance or refueling. The key point is that regular refueling is essential to ensure continued safe and efficient operation of the plant.