An alert from the Alvin W. Vogtle Electric Generating Plant for units 1 and 2 went out at noon today, Tuesday, Aug. 13, due to a transformer fire.
The issue was resolved at approximately 2:36 p.m. on Tuesday. The fire did not threaten public safety. According to a press release from Georgia Power, an alert means that there was an event that could reduce the plant’s level of safety, but there is no danger to the public. Officials at both the county and state level will be involved and prepared for any needed responses. Citizens do not need to take any action unless directed by officials.
“Our top priority is the safety and health of the public and our employees,” said Plant Vogtle 1&2 Site Vice President John Weissinger. “We will provide more details as soon as they are available, and we will continue to do so until this situation is safely resolved.
“The company is committed to the safe operation of our nuclear generating facility with equipment and systems that meet strict NRC safety and design regulations. Our highly trained plant operators are investigating this situation and initiating a plan for resolution.”
State and local agencies, along with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), were notified of the declaration. There are four categories of emergencies designated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission with an alert being the second least serious.
To stay up to date on the latest information, residents should check local media outlets, along with the Georgia Power website, on Twitter, on Facebook or by calling 1-888-847-1186. Information on Vogtle’s emergency response plan can be here.
