WNP-3 and WNP-5, Cancelled nuclear power plant project in Elma, United States
WNP-3 and WNP-5 are the remains of a cancelled nuclear power plant project near Elma, designed as an energy facility. The site spans a large area and displays unfinished cooling tower structures and industrial buildings that were left in place.
The project started in 1977 when the Washington Public Power Supply System wanted to build reactors to meet rising energy demand. Construction later stopped after public opposition and economic factors brought the plans to a halt.
The location reflects the debate over nuclear power in the 1980s, when the public voted against major energy projects. Visitors can see how a controversial technology shaped the region's landscape and politics.
The site is now part of Satsop Business Park and can be viewed from outside, with industrial structures visible from the road. Visitors should know that many areas are not publicly accessible, and the best views come from the park grounds.
The unfinished structures have been used by filmmakers as a shooting location and give the place a somewhat surreal quality. The towers and buildings continue to serve as a film set, making the place an unexpected part of the entertainment industry.
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