U.S. approves first new nuclear reactors in decades

Giving a dramatic boost to the nuclear-power industry, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission voted 4-1 on Thursday to approve the first construction permit for a nuclear reactor in almost 35 years.

The license approval gives Atlanta-based Southern Company the go-ahead to begin construction of two new reactors at its Vogtle plant in Georgia.

The permit sets the stage for construction of the first new reactor in the United States since 1978.