Russia's floating nuclear power plant in the Arctic causes anxiety in Alaska

A Russia-designed floating nuclear power plant has begun its journey through the Arctic this month causing concerns in Alaska.

Alaska Public Media reports that the 472-foot barge launched in St. Petersburg, Russia and will continue along the coast to the Bering Strait separating Alaska.

Russia officials say the plan is to dock the world's first floating nuclear power plant at Pevek, Russia about 1,250 miles from Anchorage, Alaska.

Alaska advocates say they are concerned about potential radiation the barge could produce in the northwest region.

Officials say the barge, named Akademik Lomonosov, is capable of powering a city about the size of Fairbanks and will provide heat and power to the mining region.

Officials say the barge is expected to begin producing power in December.