LETTERS: Nuclear Power Must Make up Large Part of Power Sources

Dear Editor:

In 2013 Groton got 44 percent of its electricity from carbon-free nuclear reactors; up from 40 percent in 2012. Without this contribution from nuclear we would be stuck with making up the 44 percent from carbon-emitting fossil fuels. On the other side of the coin, if we had twice the current nuclear power contribution, Groton electricity would be totally carbon-free with the extra 12 percent coming from hydro and solar.

To avoid global warming and consequential dramatic climate changes, nuclear power must make up a large part of the mix of power sources.

In a nuclear powered world we can avoid burning carbon-emitting natural gas (produced by environmentally damaging "Fracking") to heat our homes. Efficient, electrically-powered heat pumps can be used for both heating and air-conditioning.

Natural gas has a solid track record for killing lots of people. No deaths, or even health problems, have been caused by the 104 US nuclear reactors (including Three-Mile Island). Also, in a win-wIn deal called "Megatons to Megawatts," 10 percent of total US electrical power now comes from our nuclear reactors using recycled Russian bombs. By comparison, hydropower, solar, biomass, wind and geothermal together account for nine percent of US electric power.

The bad news is that many of our current reactors built over four decades ago will be retired as their licenses and extensions run out. The good news is that five new reactors are being constructed in GA, SC and TN. Eventually, renewables (solar, wind, hydro, etc.) may be able to shoulder all of US electric power needs.

Hugh and Marion Stoddart

Long Hill Road