Currently Axpo subsidiaries Nordostschweizerische Kraftwerke AG (NOK) and Centralschweizerische Kraftwerke AG (CKW) hold a stake of 57.75% and 11% respectively in the planning company, while BKW's share amounts to 31.25%. The partners reserve the right to invite further partners to acquire a stake, and have already submitted a concrete offer inviting ATEL to participate. The new company's registered office is in Aarau. The planning company will start work related to the submission of general permit applications at the beginning of 2008. The partners view it as their responsibility to formulate a solution which will ensure Switzerland's energy future. The existing nuclear power plants in Mühleberg (355 MW) as well as in Beznau I and II (730 MW in total) will need to be replaced from around 2020. Added to this, import contracts with France (totalling around 2000 MW) are being phased out. It is in the Swiss economy's interest to close the power supply gap by building new domestic production facilities. Note to press editors Additional information will be provided at the joint press conference to be held by Axpo and BKW The press conference will be held at 11:00 today, 13 December 2007, at the SWX Swiss Exchange, Selnaustrasse 30, 8021 Zurich. No further information will be issued before the close of the press conference.