In an opinion editorial published today in The Seattle Times, Mike Lawrence, an industry expert, discusses the drivers that have put nuclear energy in the spotlight again.
He notes that the main reasons for this resurgence are, the need for low-carbon energy sources, greater energy security, and large population growth, arguing that “nuclear energy has progressed from its overly optimistic early years, through a turbulent adolescence, and is now a mature technology. It is a clean, secure and sustainable base-load source of electricity and an essential ingredient in meeting the world’s increasing energy demand. Frankly, there is no solution without it.”
Read the rest of the piece here.
As part of an engaging debate of experts on the National Journal on Yucca Mountain, the Nuclear Energy Institute’s (NEI) Marvin Fertel, confirmed the industry’s growth despite these questions on the of cycle :
“As such, last week’s NRC board ruling has no bearing on the schedules for development of new nuclear plants, fuel facilities or manufacturing startups that are adding thousands of American jobs and stimulating economic growth across our country. Still, the nation needs a stable and durable used fuel policy, one established in a manner that will enhance public trust and confidence. Industry looks forward to the continuation of the repository licensing process and to the work by the Blue Ribbon Commission.”
The entire debate, “Nuclear Power going to Waste?” is available on the National Journal.
Also, a group of energy experts signed a letter to President Obama to support a “recent call by a group of eleven US Senators to convene a Nuclear Energy Summit.”
In an Independence Day reflection from Yes Vermont Yankee on the Declaration of Independence and how “the French fought side by side with the American revolutionaries, sending battalions and ship” during the Revolutionary War. The author says that “we were helped by the French way back when, and we still have a lot to learn from the French,” particularly in the field of nuclear fuel recycling.
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