Aug. 20--Support for new nuclear power plants deteriorated slightly during the past two years among people living close to existing reactors, according to a survey by the Nuclear Energy Institute.

The Institute, an industry support group that includes several Texas nuclear power developers among its members, said Monday that 82 percent of people living near nuclear power plants favor nuclear energy, and 71 percent are willing to see a new reactor in the neighborhood. That compares with a survey in 2005 showing 83 percent favored nuclear power, and 76 percent were willing to see a new reactor built nearby. Since the first survey in 2005, nuclear power companies have announced plans to build nearly two dozen more reactors across the country. Four companies have said they're considering building six reactors in Texas, with some at existing plant sites and s me at brand new locations.

Many U.S. power companies are turning to nuclear power again after more than a decade hiatus to satisfy growing demand for pollution-free electricity. The government is streamlining the licensing process and offering loan guarantees to kick-start the in ustry. The X factor is whether Americans will protest new nukes in their own backyards. Industry insiders say they feel comfortable that people living near existing facilities won't mind expansion, but there's no telling how people unaccustomed to living near uclear plants might react. Detractors worry about the nuclear waste the facilities generate, and the chance of a spill or explosion at the plant.

The Nuclear Energy Institute surveyed 1,152 randomly-selected people living within 10 miles of operating reactors, comprised of 18 people close to each of the country's 64 nuclear plants. The group said that 77 percent of those surveyed this year, who live near plants that are already planning to expand, favor the project.