What would be the expected impacts to Levy County?

As with any large-scale project, there would be both benefits and challenges. If Progress Energy ultimately moves forward with construction of a plant at the Levy County site, the county will benefit from the property tax boost that such a facility provides. There are also numerous construction-related and ongoing economic benefits, including local job creation.  The proposed Levy County plants would employ 800 full-time, high-paying jobs.  It would generate another 1,000 to 2,000 indirect jobs and employ about 3,000 at the height of construction.

Having a nuclear plant in the county also would entail a number of responsibilities, including those for coordinated safety and emergency planning among local agencies, etc. Progress Energy takes its role as a corporate community partner very seriously, and the company has a long record of employee and corporate involvement in its plant communities.

What will happen to local water supplies?

The expected water requirement for a potential nuclear plant is 30-40 million gallons of ocean water per day. The need for water to support electricity generation must be balanced with the numerous other local and regional needs for dependable, clean water. Any plan to build a plant and to begin drawing water from local sources would be coordinated with and approved by appropriate government agencies.

Will real estate values near the plant site drop?

Historical data indicate that real estate values are not negatively affected by nuclear plants. Since Progress Energy's Crystal River Nuclear Plant has been in operation in Citrus County, the price of housing has increased in the region, along with the number of residents. At the time construction began on the Crystal River Nuclear Plant in 1970, the county had fewer than 20,000 residents. In 2006, the county has 134,361 residents, a 600 percent increase. The median value of a home increased from $66,300 in 1990 to $84,400 in 2000.

How will the public be engaged?

The company estimates it will take approximately 24 months to complete the combined construction and operating license application. Progress Energy is committed to keeping the community and region informed and involved every step of the way. The company has made a wealth of information available on its Web site and will ensure that written materials are distributed and made available in publicly accessible locations around the county.

How else are you helping to secure Florida's energy future?

In 2007, Progress Energy awarded $1.2 million to Florida universities and community colleges in support of workforce development and innovation in energy technology and resource management, which will shape the energy future of our state. Our partners include the University of Florida, University of Florida Water Institute, University of Central Florida, University of South Florida’s Power Center for Utility Explorations and Central Florida Community College.