Clean Energy on the Back burner Response

In response to “Clean Energy on the Backburner” from the Burn After Reading blog.

I completely agree with you on this issue. Nuclear power plants, along with other renewable energy sources are the way to go. I was pleased to hear that Obama has set the nation a goal of using a minimum of 80% of our energy from renewable sources by 2035. Although 2035 is a bit too modest of a goal, at least there's now a goal. I agree, along with the rest of the world, that the events that occurred in Japan were extremely unfortunate, not only for the harm caused to the people but the setback this creates for nuclear power. I think it is important that this event doesn't get taken to heart by Americans- like you said, “there were inherent problems with the design of their reactors and [they] were never updated like their American counter-parts.” Nuclear power, when harnessed, has the capability to do great things. I think France is a great example of this. Beginning with the oil crisis of the 70's, the French committed to switching over to nuclear power and have seen great results as an outcome. Because almost 80% of their energy comes from nuclear power plants, the French now have extremely low carbon emissions when compared to other European countries, and have reduced their output of nitrogen oxide by over half while still increasing their energy output. This leading example is great encouragement for our government to get behind clean energy, including nuclear power, so it is wonderful that they are offering loan guarantees and are really embracing this. I'm with you in hoping some new construction will come about from this.

PS- good blog name, Burn After Reading is an awesome movie!