Russia Unveils Detailed Plans To Build 21 New Nuclear Power Units By 2030

[Kelvin Mace]

97. Thank you again

I am not anti-nuclear since I do understand that in theory, reactors, especially 4G reactors could be built and operated much more safely with fewer problems than current reactors (which are VERY old),

BUT...

I have a pronounced distrust of allowing any commercial entity to operate these reactors for profit. As soon as profit is in the equation, there is pressure to cut costs, which means skimping on training, safety and materials. I would trust engineers to design safe reactors, I just have no faith that my local electric company will build/operate it safely, since doing so would cut their profits.

I see lots a great engineering ideas to make nukes safer, but so far, no commercial incentive to do so. Utilities will not build new plants without government subsidies and guarantees, and politicians are loath to approve something that could be the next Fukushima.

I fear that our energy dilemma is going to result in VERY bad decisions in the future, We will continue to burn fossil fuels regardless of the environmental damage, and when push comes to shove, many countries will turn to nuclear fuel, but will build reactors that will ultimately cause massive economic damage when they fail due to profiteering.

The choice is greed or extinction, and we have pretty much already decided on greed.

Not you or I, of course, but our political masters to appease their corporate masters.