US regulators have approved plans to build the first new nuclear power plant in more than 30 years, as E&T reports in our news today. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) voted 4-1 to allow Atlanta-based Southern Co to build and operate two new nuclear power reactors at its existing Vogtle nuclear power plant in Georgia. The units will cost Southern and partners about $14 billion and enter service as soon as 2016 and 2017. We also present this graphic, illustrating the type of reactor intended for Plant Vogtle, near Augusta, Georgia. Click on the graphic for an expanded view. Continue reading US approves first nuclear power plant in 30 years – an annotated graphic