Nuclear power plant seeks two new reactors near Augusta

A proposal to build two new nuclear reactors near Augusta is generating controversy.

The public is invited to speak about the proposal at a hearing tonight.

Southern Nuclear Operating Company wants to build two new nuclear reactors at the Vogtle Electricity Plant near Waynesboro.

Both supporters and opponents of of the plan will speak at a public hearing tonight before the federal Atomic Safety and Licensing Board in Augusta.

Proponents say that nuclear energy is cheaper and is cleaner than other forms of energy, such as coal.

But opponents fear the reactors will use too much water from the Savannah River.

They also fear the risk of a nuclear accident.

Plant Vogtle already has two nuclear reactors.

Company officials say the new reactors would generate electricity for about 558,000 average homes in Georgia.

They hope to have the reactors online by 2017.

The hearing is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the Doubletree Hotel on Perimeter Parkway in Augusta. A presentation regarding a permit for the reactors will begin at 5 p.m.