Building power plants is a long, complex process. Selecting a site for possible generation expansion is one part of our planning process to ensure we have the energy our customers need, today and in the future. Nuclear power is one option we need to consider.

After evaluating several sites in the Carolinas, the Harris Nuclear Plant was selected as the best option for possible expansion largely because of its extensive existing infrastructure.

• A sufficient supply of cooling water. Water is one of the most important factors in determining the suitability of any potential plant site. The Cape Fear River and Harris Lake provide a reliable and sustainable water supply now and into the future.
• Transmission line capacity. The Harris site already has the electric transmission capability needed to accommodate the additional generation, so most of the power from an additional nuclear unit could travel to homes and businesses on existing transmission lines.
• Proximity to Progress Energy Carolinas’ largest area of customer concentration.
• An abundance of available land. Progress Energy owns a large amount of land in the nieighboring area -- approximately 35 square miles -- on which to build without directly affecting neighborhood properties.

While the Harris site was chosen to move to the next step in the process, Progress Energy will continue to assess future demand and changing economics before we make our final plans. As with any major decision, our customers’ needs and concerns are foremost in our minds. We encourage your participation in this important discussion.