Stopping nuclear power

An environmental group has filed a petition with federal regulators, seeking to block Duke Energy Corp.'s plan to build and operate two nuclear reactors near Gaffney. In its filing with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the Blue Ridge Environmental Defense League says the cost to build nuclear power plants and the inherent dangers of operating them outweigh the benefits of increased power generation. Duke spokeswoman Rita Sipe said Wednesday the filing by the North Carolina-based group is part of the yearslong federal licensing process, which invites public input. At least nine companies have filed applications with the NRC to build nuclear power plants. Duke had years ago planned to build a reactor at the same location, but later scrapped the project.

--Associated Press