For several years, I have been speculating on how nuclear plants could be feasible as a substitute for all of the fossil fuel-based power plants in the country. It's well-known that countries like Japan have taken a lead on using nuclear power for energy, but that has remained a double-edged sword all this time.
In 2011, an earthquake of magnitude 9.0 hit Japan, and after a tsunami that followed, nuclear power plants ran out of the power they needed to cool their resources. This triggered meltdowns, and a need for long-term evacuations throughout that area of Japan. With the media circulation about those meltdowns, and without sufficient education on nuclear resources compared to the fossil fuels other power plants burn, the public clearly does not trust nuclear power as much as fossil fuels.
From there is the long-term commitment necessary from companies and/or the government to fund more nuclear power. Although there is plenty more fuel to use, the power plants need to be built near a constant water source to stabilize temperatures, and be prepared to stand tall again environmental disasters. Given both sides of the environmental issues, I doubt there will be long-term commitment to nuclear power in this country any time soon.
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Alexander Granato A.M.ASCE
Student
Bexley OH
granato.3@...------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 07-19-2022 12:39 PM
From: William McAnally
Subject: What about nuclear power?
I have questions about nuclear power and its role in our electrical power system. What fraction of our energy is presently produced by nuclear power? Should it be increased? Are safety and cost acceptable? Are new technologies available or coming? Could new Small Modular Reactors be a sound approach?
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William McAnally Ph.D., P.E., D.CE, D.NE, F.ASCE
ENGINEER
Columbus MS
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