ATLANTA, Oct. 17, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Georgia Power announced today the latest milestone in the transition to operation of Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 – members of the first training class of nuclear operators have passed the initial licensing exam by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), ensuring that licensed, qualified operators are in place prior to nuclear fuel loading and plant start up. Once operational, the new units will employ approximately 75 highly trained nuclear operators as part of a permanent workforce of more than 800.
The three-week testing process encompassed simulator testing, job performance measures and a written exam. The operators now must complete an additional six months of preoperational testing before receiving their licenses.
"Nearly four years have gone into training and preparing this class with countless hours in the classroom and simulator," said Karen Fili, site vice president for Vogtle Units 3 and 4. "This team will help bring the new units online for the first time and will be well-prepared to help ensure safe and reliable operation for as long as the units are in service."
The new Vogtle units are among the first built in the U.S. in the last three decades and, once online, will serve customers for more than 60 years. The four-unit Plant Vogtle is expected to generate more electricity than any other U.S. nuclear facility, enough to power more than one million homes and businesses.
Georgia Power delivers reliable energy for customers at the lowest possible cost by leveraging a diverse generation mix, including nuclear, 21st century coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar and wind. To learn more about Georgia Power's diverse generation portfolio, and the Vogtle nuclear expansion project, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com.
About Georgia Power
Georgia Power is the largest subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America's premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company's promise to 2.5 million customers in all but four of Georgia's 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy at rates below the national average, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, 21st century coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is consistently recognized by J.D. Power and Associates as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower) and Twitter (Twitter.com/GeorgiaPower).
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SOURCE Georgia Power