Georgia Power officials discuss new reactors
By Anne Marie Kyzer Staff Writer

Southern Nuclear's Jeff Gasser spoke to local leaders about Plant Vogtle's future plans at a luncheon last Thursday.

If all goes well, Plant Vogtle could break ground on two new nuclear reactors by the end of next year.

Although several criteria must still be met for the new reactors, site preparation could begin as early as December 2008, according to Jeff Gasser, executive vice president and chief nuclear officer of Southern Nuclear Operating Company.

He explained that actual construction of the units may not begin until they are licensed, but excavation may precede licensing and construction.

Gasser said the units could be up for commercial operation by 2016.

Officials from Georgia Power and Southern Nuclear spoke to local leaders about the possible new reactors at a luncheon last Thursday.

While Southern Nuclear is busy seeking approval for the new reactors, they are also awaiting approval of their license renewal application. The renewed license would extend operation of the current two units by 20 years or until 2047 and 2049. Units one and two first came online for commercial production in 1987 and 1989, respectively, and were licensed for 40 years.
SO WHEN WILL IT HAPPEN?
Timeline of Possible New Reactors







Currently: Preparation of construction and operating license (COL)
application
March 2008: Submit COL application
December: Possible site preparation for construction of new reactors

July 2011: Decision expected on COL application
July 2011-July 2015: Construction of new reactors
January 2016: Commercial operation of new reactors
** Dates are estimates and subject to change