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NRC gives green light to first new US nuclear plant in 30 years
- 12 years ago (2012-02-10)
- David Flin
The US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has voted to grant a licence for two new reactors at a site near Waynesboro, Georgia. Atlanta-based Southern Company plans to start operating the $14 billion reactors at its Vogtle site by 2016. The NRC approved the company’s plans on a 4-1 vote. NRC Chairman Gregory Jaczko voted against the Vogtle license, saying that he wanted a binding commitment from the company that it would make safety changes prompted by Japan’s Fukushima disaster.
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The NRC last approved construction of a nuclear plant in 1978.
US Rep Phil Gingrey (R-Marietta), said: “Nuclear energy is a stable, solid investment that is not subject to unpredictable cost fluctuations, climate conditions or dependence on foreign suppliers. At a time when so many in our state are out of work, this $14 billion investment will bring 5000 much needed on-site jobs to the area.”
Marvin Fertel, President and CEO of the Nuclear Energy Institute, said: “This is an historic day. The NRC vote sounds a clarion call to the world that the USA recognises the importance of expanding nuclear energy as a key component of a low-carbon energy future that is central to job creation, diversity of electricity supply, and energy security.”
President Obama said greater use of nuclear power could cut the country’s reliance on fossil fuels and create energy without producing greenhouse gas emissions. The Obama administration has offered the Vogtle project $8.3 billion in federal loan guarantees as part of its pledge to expand nuclear power.