WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. (AP)  -- The owner of the Indian Point nuclear power plant is hiring outside experts for an independent examination of safety, security and emergency preparedness at the two reactors in the New York suburbs.

Entergy Nuclear president Michael Kansler said Wednesday the analysis is aimed at building public confidence.

Entergy is seeking new 20-year licenses for the reactors in Buchanan, 35 miles north of midtown Manhattan. But New York state and other groups are opposed.

Critics say the plants are vulnerable to terrorism and the populous surrounding area could not be evacuated quickly.

The environmental group Riverkeeper says the new study would not be independent because Entergy is paying for it.

On the Net: www.safesecurevital.com/