Watchdog Group: Sun is Setting on Nuclear Power in NC
Monday, October 11, 2010
DURHAM, N.C. - Solar and nuclear power now cost about the same to generate, at least in North Carolina. That's according to a study conducted by NC Warn, a nonprofit focusing on climate protection. The group's new report finds that solar and nuclear power production costs are at about 16 cents per kilowatt hour.
Executive director Jim Warren predicts it won't be long before solar power is actually less expensive.
"It's unlikely that new nuclear power could ever be generated for less than 18 or 20 cents, if anyone ever actually completes a project."
There are currently five nuclear power plants across North Carolina, supplying one-third of the state's electricity. Advocates for nuclear power point out that it is an emission-free way of generating power, and the industry creates high-paying jobs.
The U.S. Senate is considering a Renewable Energy Standard that would require 15 percent of the electricity in the country to come from wind and solar generation. This comes as the White House announced solar panels would be installed on the roof of the residence by next spring.
Warren insists the switch to solar power is a must to protect the planet.
"Nationally, the shift to clean energy is happening, but it needs to happen much faster because of these climate tipping points we're getting very close to."
The subsidies that solar power generation currently receives were included when figuring the cost of solar power in the NC Warn report. The full report, "Solar Energy is Now the Better Buy," can be found at www.ncwarn.org.
get more stories like this via email
Health and Wellness
A recent report examined how some rural Tennessee hospitals have managed to stay afloat despite financial challenges. The report includes interviews …
Social Issues
Earlier this month, a new Arizona Public Service rate hike went into effect and one senior advocacy group said those on a fixed income may struggle …
Social Issues
Michigan recently implemented a significant juvenile justice reform package following recommendations from a task force made up of prosecutors…
Social Issues
A mix of policy updates and staffing boosts has helped to put wage theft enforcement on the radar in Minnesota, and officials leading the efforts are …
Social Issues
Colorado is working to boost the state's agricultural communities by getting more fresh, nutritious foods into school cafeterias - and a new online …
Social Issues
Missouri lawmakers are concerned with protecting people from the potential risks of the increasing accessibility of AI-generated images and videos…