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Power Plants

Robert W. Scherer Power Plant

Robert W. Scherer Power Plant

Robert W. Scherer Power Plant Robert W. Scherer Power Plant, commonly known as Plant Scherer, is the largest coal-fired power plant in the United States by generating capacity. Located near Juliette, Georgia, the four-unit facility is operated by Georgia Power, a subsidiary of Southern Company.

Last verified: 2026-03-09
Location
Juliette, GA
Industry
Coal-Fired Electric Power Generation
Exposure Era
1980s
Primary Asbestos Products
Boiler insulation, Pipe insulation, Turbine insulation, Gaskets, Cement products, Refractory materials
Job Categories at Risk
Boiler operators, Maintenance workers, Pipe fitters, Insulators, Electricians, Construction workers

History & Asbestos Use

Plant Scherer was constructed in phases, with Unit 1 beginning operation in 1982, Unit 2 in 1984, Unit 3 in 1987, and Unit 4 in 1989. Although built later than many other coal plants, asbestos-containing materials were still used in the earlier units before regulations tightened in the mid-1980s. The plant was named after Robert W. Scherer, a former president of Georgia Power. It remains one of the single largest sources of electricity in the southeastern United States.

Exposure Details

Workers at Plant Scherer were exposed to asbestos primarily during the construction phase and early maintenance of Units 1 and 2, which were built before asbestos use was significantly curtailed. Boiler insulation, pipe lagging, gaskets, and refractory materials containing asbestos were installed throughout the earlier units. Construction workers and pipe fitters who built the plant, as well as maintenance crews who serviced it during early operations, faced the greatest exposure risk.

Workers at Risk

The following job categories at Robert W. Scherer Power Plant had the highest risk of asbestos exposure:

  • Boiler operators
  • Maintenance workers
  • Pipe fitters
  • Insulators
  • Electricians
  • Construction workers

Health Effects

Construction workers and early operational staff at Plant Scherer have faced asbestos-related health risks including mesothelioma and asbestosis. While the plant was built later than many facilities on this list, the use of asbestos-containing materials in the early 1980s still created significant exposure for construction crews and maintenance workers. Georgia's industrial workforce includes numerous power plant employees who have been diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases.

Health information is based on established medical research on asbestos exposure. Asbestos is classified as a known human carcinogen by the National Cancer Institute, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult a physician for medical advice specific to your situation.

Compensation May Be Available

Workers exposed to asbestos at Robert W. Scherer Power Plant may be entitled to compensation through asbestos trust funds, personal injury lawsuits, or veterans benefits. Mesothelioma patients and their families have recovered billions in compensation from companies that manufactured or used asbestos products.

2 asbestos trust funds have been identified as potentially related to exposure at this site. Many mesothelioma patients qualify to file claims with multiple trusts simultaneously.

Find Out If You Qualify

Were You Exposed to Asbestos at Robert W. Scherer Power Plant?

Workers who were employed at Robert W. Scherer Power Plant between 1980s may have been exposed to asbestos-containing materials. If you've been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may have legal options including trust fund claims and lawsuits.

Related Asbestos Trust Funds

Workers exposed to asbestos at Robert W. Scherer Power Plant may be eligible to file claims with the following trust funds:

Treatment Centers in Georgia

If you were exposed to asbestos at Robert W. Scherer Power Plant and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, these specialized treatment centers in Georgia may be able to help.

Browse all treatment centers →

Frequently Asked Questions

Was asbestos used at Plant Scherer?

Yes. Although Plant Scherer was built later than many power plants, asbestos-containing materials were used in the construction of the earlier units in the early 1980s, including boiler insulation, pipe insulation, gaskets, and refractory materials.

Who was at risk for asbestos exposure at Plant Scherer?

Construction workers who built the plant and maintenance crews who serviced the early units were most at risk, including pipe fitters, insulators, boiler operators, and electricians.

Can former Plant Scherer workers file asbestos compensation claims?

Yes. Workers who were exposed to asbestos during the construction or early operation of Plant Scherer and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases may be eligible for compensation through trust funds or legal action.

Get a Free Case Evaluation

If you or a loved one worked at Robert W. Scherer Power Plant and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis, our attorneys can help you explore your legal options. There is no cost, no pressure, and no obligation.

Free & Confidential No upfront costs, no hidden fees. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation.
Nationwide Representation Licensed to handle mesothelioma cases in all 50 states from our Houston office.
Over 25 Years of Experience Our attorneys have recovered over $2 billion for mesothelioma patients and families.
Fast Results Trust fund claims can resolve in as few as 90 days. We move quickly for our clients.

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Sources:

  • EPA records — accessed 2026-03-09
  • OSHA compliance records — accessed 2026-03-09
  • Georgia Power historical records — accessed 2026-03-09
  • Georgia EPD records — accessed 2026-03-09
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