The operator of the R.E. Ginna nuclear plant in western New York has reached an agreement to keep the financially stressed generator operating.

Administrative law judges for the New York Public Service Commission said Wednesday that a joint proposal for the PSC-ordered reliability support services agreement between Constellation Energy Nuclear Group and Rochester Gas & Electric is expected to be filed by Sept. 23.

The judges posted a revised schedule calling for comments on the agreement by Sept. 30, with an evidentiary hearing to be held on Oct. 14 (14-E-0270).

Parties to the agreement in principle include the PSC staff, the New York Division of Consumer Protection and a group of interveners representing commercial and industrial customers.

Entergy Nuclear, which has plants in western New York and the Hudson Valley, and NRG Energy have opposed the RSSA throughout the 14-month proceeding. The companies will neither support nor oppose the agreement, the filing said.

Environmental groups Alliance for a Green Economy and Citizens’ Environmental Coalition will oppose the agreement in part, but the objectionable sections were not identified.

The out-of-market contract is expected to raise rates for customers in the Rochester area. The PSC recently adopted a temporary rate surcharge to lessen rate shock when a final agreement is sent to the commission. (See NYPSC Approves 5.2% Ginna Rate Surcharge.)

— William Opalka