ENERGY Coming together

ENERGY Coming together

Apr 14 - Florida Times Union

Given the situation, one would expect a powerful coalition to be forming, consisting of environmentalists, the global warming/ice age faction and those who want safe, reliable electric power.

All of those disparate interests should agree that now is the time for a resurgence in nuclear power production.

Two proposals already are before the U.S. Department of Energy to test the new process for obtaining a combined construction and operating license for new nuclear plants.

Environmentalists want clean air, and oppose drilling for oil in areas such as the Gulf of Mexico or Alaska's north slope. Many power producers went to natural gas, but the greater use of natural gas is pushing up the price, and it is becoming scarce.

At a March hearing of an Energy and Natural Resources sub- committee, Chairman Lamar Alexander said: "If we're really serious about clean air, I think we're going to have to build new nuclear plants."

Meanwhile demand for electricity continues to rise. The government forecasts a need for 45 percent more by 2025. How does the nation meet demand, at reasonable cost, and with minimal impact on the environment? Many people say to do what France and Japan have done: Increase the use of nuclear power.

Nuclear power currently generates electricity for 1 of every 5 U.S. homes and businesses.

If a coalition of interests were to form, advocating nuclear power, it would have ample public support. A new environmental survey by Gallup says public support has increased by 10 percentage points since 2001 and 56 percent now say they favor the use of nuclear energy.

Despite many successful efforts to conserve energy, the nation needs more if it is to continue producing 25 percent of the world's wealth. Making it safe and affordable is the goal