Energy

Prof. Bob McGovern

English 122

12/08/08

Paper Three

The Future of Energy

In an energy era people are faced with tough decisions. As the population grows so do energy needs. Implementing clean Nuclear power is paramount to economic stability and independence and could seriously reduce our dependence on foreign oil. In an article titled “Nuclear Power Today” The World Nuclear Association says, “The nuclear generation began 50 years ago and now generates as much global electricity as was produced then by all sources. Some two-thirds of world population lives in nations where nuclear power plants are an integral part of electricity production and industrial infrastructures. Half the world's people live in countries where new nuclear power reactors are in planning or under construction. Thus, a rapid expansion of global nuclear power would require no fundamental change - simply an acceleration of existing strategies” (n.pag). Most people are not aware of the impact of Nuclear power on their everyday lives. This power can be scaled up quickly and safely to take additional stress off an already overtaxed power grid.

Nuclear power can be touted as one of the safest technologies available around the world today. In an article titled “Nuclear Power” The U.S. Department of Energy states, “Today there are 441 nuclear power reactors in operation in 31 countries around the world. Generating electricity for nearly 1 billion people, they account for approximately 17 percent of worldwide electricity generation and provide half or more of the electricity in a number of industrialized countries. Another 32 are presently under construction overseas. Nuclear power has an excellent operating record and generates electricity in a reliable, environmentally safe, and affordable manner without emitting noxious gases into the atmosphere” (n.pag). Nuclear power is far safer than most people are lead to believe. Nuclear power can help to substantially reduce green...