Resources & Stats
September 2009
New Nuclear Plants Vital to Fight Climate Change, Studies Agree
Significant expansion of nuclear energy will be required if Congress and the Obama administration are to be successful in reducing greenhouse gases, according to several scientific studies.The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) and the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) are the most recent studies that identify increased use of nuclear energy as part of a broad portfolio of low-carbon electricity supply technologies. Other necessary parts of the portfolio should include energy efficiency technologies, expanded use of renewable energy sources and cleaner coal plants that capture and store carbon dioxide, according to both studies.
Recent studies by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Business Roundtable, the International Energy Agency and Cambridge Energy Research Associates also recognize that nuclear energy will play a vital role in a low-carbon approach to electricity production.
Also in this issue:
G8 Statement Supports Nuclear
In the build up to international climate negotiations in Copenhagen this December, the Group of Eight (G8) nations have called for international cooperation in nuclear energy. G8 leaders say that a growing number of countries have expressed interest in nuclear energy programs as a means to address climate change and energy security concerns.
NEI, Washington Capitals Promote Clean Air Message to Fans
As representatives of a sport that has more to gain than most from the continued wintertime health of ice ponds and lakes, the National Hockey League has taken up the call to combat global warming and raise public awareness of the effects of climate change through various partnerships. NEI is teaming up with the Caps to promote the clean air benefits of nuclear energy to sports fans via multiple media, including signage at the Verizon Center, print and radio ads and on the Capitals’ Web site.
Q&A With Patrick Moore, CASEnergy Coalition Co-Chair
Patrick Moore, one of the founders of Greenpeace, saw the value of nuclear energy and changed from an opponent to an enthusiastic supporter. Now, as co-chair of the Clean and Safe Energy Coalition, Moore is briefing policymakers and giving speeches on nuclear energy’s vital role in our energy mix. Insight recently had an opportunity to interview him.