Exclusive interview gives insights to Vogtle project objectives
– Edited by Stephen Heiser –
Southern Nuclear Operating Co., a sister company to Alabama Power, Mississippi Power Co. and other subsidiaries under the Southern Company wing, is one of 21 utility companies last year that filed for permission to build one of 34 power plants nationwide.
In March of 2008 Southern Nuclear Operating Company asked permission to build two new reactors at the Vogtle Nuclear Site near Augusta in Burke County, Ga. Vogtle Nuclear Site 1 and 2 was finished during the 1980s. Workers are already tearing down old buildings from the two reactors to make space for new construction.
Nuclear Street Publisher Cam Abernethy recently had an opportunity to ask some questions of Beth Thomas, a spokeswoman for Southern Nuclear Operating Company (SNOC). SNOC has been doing some work at plant Vogtle and Ms Thomas was kind enough to answer some of our questions.
Nuclear Street: About how long does the site preparation and excavating take?
Thomas: We began excavation this summer. Excavation will continue through early 2010.
Nuclear Street: What are some of the first buildings that will be under construction?
Thomas: Later this year, we will begin building some temporary structures to support construction. In 2010, we will begin construction of training facilities as well as an in-processing center.
Nuclear Street: Do you have any large components that are currently being fabricated?
Thomas: Yes, fabrication of large components has begun. As you likely know, we have selected Westinghouse AP1000 technology for new units at the site.
Nuclear Street: What is the timeline for hiring and training new employees to operate and maintain the new units?
Thomas: We've hired our first Operations Instructors. These employees are currently in training. They will be responsible for training our Operations staff for Vogtle Units 3 and 4.
Nuclear Street: What is the next approval that Southern Nuclear is currently working towards? What will this allow?
Thomas: Our Combined License (COL) application remains under review by the NRC. We anticipate getting the COL in 2011. Following receipt of the COL, we can begin all safety-related construction activities at the site.
Nuclear Street: Thank you very much for your time. We wish you the best of luck.