WASHINGTON (AP) The Energy Department has narrowed its list of the most likely recipients of $18.5 billion in government loan guarantees for building the first new nuclear power plants.

The department recently informed four companies planning new reactors in Maryland, Georgia, South Carolina and Texas that their applications have been elevated for closer scrutiny, department and industry officials said Friday.

Energy Department spokeswoman Stephanie Mueller said the applications were singled out for closer review because they are furthest along in obtaining a license from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

The proposed projects singled out include Atlanta-based Southern Company for two new reactors at its Vogtle power plant near Waynesboro, Ga., and South Carolina Electric Gas, for two new reactors at its V.C. Summer power plant near Columbia, S.C.

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