Progress Energy stated that nuclear power is one of three critical components of its balanced solution to meeting its customers’ energy needs over the long term, which also includes the use of renewable energy sources and the implementation of energy efficiency programs.
If approved and built, the project will reportedly be among the first nuclear plants in the US to be constructed on a greenfield site in more than 30 years, and will also involve the development of one of the single largest transmission infrastructure projects in Florida’s history.
Progress Energy noted that the filing is the first step in a lengthy process to ensure that nuclear energy remains a viable resource option for the future.
For purposes of preparing a Public Service Commission filing and a combined operators license application for the Levy County site, the company has selected the Westinghouse AP-1000 design for the two proposed nuclear units.
Jeff Lyash, president and CEO of Progress Energy Florida, said: Our investment in carbon-free nuclear power is an investment in our state’s energy future. Customer demand for electricity continues to grow, and we have an obligation to ensure that our supply remains as reliable in the future as it is today.
