ANS calls for deployment of new nuclear power plants
Not only would the increased deployment of nuclear power plants help satisfy a growing demand for energy in the United States, it would benefit the environment and protect the atmosphere from emissions that many scientists believe is promoting global warming.
Nuclear energy accounts for about 70 percent of all the emission-free electric generation in the United States, says a position statement adopted by the ANS board of directors. Failure to build new nuclear power plants would mean a significant increase in the emission of greenhouse gases and harmful particulates; more rapid depletion of finite fossil fuels; decreased diversification of fuels; and growing reliance on foreign suppliers.
"Nuclear energy has proved to be an environmentally friendly, safe and reliable source of power," said ANS President Dr. Gail H. Marcus. "As our nation approaches the many energy challenges of the future, it is in the nation's best interest to elevate its reliance on nuclear energy.
"Maintaining an active nuclear power industry is necessary if we are to have ample and reliable fuel sources and a cleaner environment."
Nuclear energy, the second largest source of energy, contributes 20 percent of the United States' electricity production. To satisfy National Energy Policy goals of energy security and protecting against global climate changes produced by greenhouse gas emissions, the share of nuclear energy will have to increase.
"If we are to achieve any degree of control over the ever increasing emissions of greenhouse gases and harmful particulates, we must increase the share of our electricity mix from renewable fuels such as nuclear, hydropower, solar, wind and others," says the ANS position statement.
"Moving forward vigorously now on new nuclear power plants will help the country maintain a technically knowledgeable workforce and a supply and manufacturing infrastructure," added Marcus. "It also will allow the United States to maintain a leadership role in nuclear development and non-proliferation issues worldwide.
"A prompt and aggressive effort toward the deployment of new nuclear stations in the near future should be started immediately."
For more information regarding ANS positions, go to its web site at: http://www.ans.org/pi/ps/.
