It looks like there's going to be a new nuclear power plant built in South Texas soon. Today, NRG Energy is applying for permission to build two nuclear reactors at its South Texas Project in Bay City. If approved (and it looks like it will be approved), it will be the first new nuclear reactors built in the United States in 30 years.
With natural gas prices going through the roof, and more concerns over the inevitable pollution that accompanies new coal-powered plants, many are beginning to see nuclear power as the answer to our growing energy needs. The two new reactors will provide enough energy for 21 million homes, and are expected to come on line by 2015.
But is nuclear power really the answer? Serious doubts can be raised by two simple questions. (1) Does anyone remember Three Mile Island? (2) What are you going to do with the nuclear waste?
Of course, a nuclear meltdown or disposal of nuclear waste are not problems that NRG Energy need worry about. They are a New Jersey company and these would be South Texas problems.
I think I'd be worrying though if I lived in South Texas.
There are considerable environmental impacts from coal and to a lesser extent natural gas as well though. The production of greenhouse gas, destruction of the environment surrounding coal mines, health effects of smog, etc. Many many more people have died in the coal industry than all nuclear accidents worldwide. All I am saying is look at the big picture pertaining to sustainability. Furthermore, if pebble bed reactors (Google) are used the risk of meltdown is nearly impossible by design and irradiation is reduced. Nuclear power is the way to go right now for a long term sustainable energy economy.
ReplyDeleteI am a Nuclear trained engineer. You obviously know nothing about nuclear power and its generation to come up with comments you have made. Before you blast something, make sure you are well educated on the subject matter. The fact is that Nuclear Power is a great and clean way to produce power. Get educated.
ReplyDeleteRemember three mile island? Yea remember how no one was hurt and there was no damage to the environment? get off your high horse and look at the great benefits that this offers the global community
ReplyDeleteWhat are you going to do with the waste? Can we bury it in your backyard?
ReplyDeleteYour children's backyard? Your grandchildrens' backyard? Your great-grandchildrens' backyard? Your great-great-grandchildrens'...
ReplyDelete