Posted on 12/16/2005 9:08:13 AM PST by NormsRevenge
SAN CLEMENTE, Calif. (AP) - The California Public Utilities Commission approved a massive $680 million renovation that would extend the life of the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station by at least 13 years.
The commission on Thursday gave Southern California Edison the green light to replace four aging steam generators that power the two nuclear reactors at the seaside plant about 60 miles south of Los Angeles.
Under the PUC's decision, Edison's ratepayers would be on the hook for up to $782 million, including possible cost overruns. Customers would pay about 50 cents extra on their monthly bills beginning in 2009.
But the commission's decision was met with concern from both Edison and some representatives for electricity customers.
Edison officials are concerned that the utility would have to pick up any costs in excess of $782 million.
"We need to go through it and analyze it," said Edison President John Fielder.
Ratepayers' groups, by contrast, wanted the reimbursement capped at $680 million, which already included a $141 million cushion for contingencies.
"This is a dangerous sign of what is to come. Edison's history has been to underforecast and overspend," said Matthew Freedman, an attorney for the Utility Reform Network, a nonprofit consumer organization.
Without the upgrades, the plant could have to close as soon as 2009 because the steam generators would no longer meet government standards.
The PUC's decision also would allow Edison to apply for a license extension to operate the plant through 2042. Its current license expires in 2022.
The plant in northern San Diego County provides 2,150 megawatts of power, enough for 2.2 million Southern California homes.
I think they should generate the 2.2 megawatts using biomass - a giant wood burning generator using old-growth redwoods.
"Without the upgrades, the plant could have to close ... because ... no longer meet government standards."
KEY PHRASE ABOVE...
These standards are controlled by the green crowd and liberals. They change over time and what was ok 15 years ok is suddenly "not safe" anymore.
And I think the author has a third-grade science education. Thanks for the laugh.
You mean like this intelligent comment, "four aging steam generators that power the two nuclear reactors." Talk about carts before horses. What did happen to neutron embrittlement? Remember, from back in the nuclear-winter days?
exactly. LOL.
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