Debate over financial risks for Georgia nuclear plant

Georgia Power Members of the state's Public Service Commission PSC will soon meet amid a debate over who should pay the bills if the cost of building two more reactors at Plant Vogtle near Waynesboro is more than expected.

A senior PSC staff member has proposed the risk should be split between the electric company and its customers. Under that plan, Georgia Power would get a boost in its earnings for finishing Plant Vogtle under budget. If costs go too high, the utility's profits would be reduced.

Georgia Power executives say the plan could penalize the company without taking into account the reason for cost overruns.