The Public Service Board is beginning the process that will decide whether to authorize the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant to operate until 2032.
But some lawmakers are questioning whether the board will be able to complete its work before the end of the 2009 session of the Vermont Legislature.
Over the coming months, the Vernon plant will be studied by the federal Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the state Department of Public Service. A citizens’ oversight panel will review the groups’ work.
To extend its license beyond 2012 the plant must get approvals from the federal and state regulators and the Vermont Legislature.
Plant owner by Entergy Nuclear is now talking with Vermont utilities about a purchase agreement for the plant’s power in case Yankee’s license is extended.