Entergy has selected GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy's next-generation economic simplified boiling water reactor (ESBWR) design. The new reactor is expected to help Louisiana address its increasing energy needs while mitigating climate change.

By submitting its combined construction and operating license (COL) application before a federal deadline of December 31, 2008, Entergy remains eligible for tax incentives and loan guarantees offered by the US Energy Policy Act of 2005.

Jack Fuller, president and CEO of GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy, said: "We are pleased to support Entergy's application to the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission to reserve the option of building a potential ESBWR to help address Louisiana's need for additional power generation capacity."