Nuclear energy “must play a major role as we face the threat of climate change and transition to a thriving clean energy economy,” Department of Energy Secretary
Steven Chu said Friday.
Chu’s comment on nuclear came as the department announced that it expects to grant as much as $50 million for nuclear energy research at universities next year. The goal is to ensure the United States remains on the cutting edge of nuclear technology, he said,
The nation presently has 104 nuclear power plants in operation, but hasn’t built a new one since the 1970s. Utilities are proposing 25 new plants over the next decade, largely in Sunbelt states. Financing remains a problem.
Nuclear Plants In Teh US. Source: Nuclear Street
