Poll shows deep pessimism for nuclear power

A poll released by the Washington International Energy Group earlier this month shows the lowest recorded levels of support among utility executives for the development of new nuclear power plants, and uncertainty about the economics and relicensing of existing reactors. The Washington International Energy Group is a private consulting firm that provides business services to energy companies. Its 1996 annual survey contains responses from almost 400 utility executives and independent power producers. Following are the results for several key questions. Can nuclear power be competitive? 39% said that nuclear power can be competitive; 39% percent said it cannot be competitive; 22% were not sure. Will nuclear licences be extended beyond the initial period? 41% expect to relicense their reactors; 30% do not expect to; 29% are not sure. Would you consider ordering a new nuclear power plant? In 1994, 10% answered yes; 72%, no; 18% were not sure. In 1995, 10% answered yes; 74%, no; 15% not sure. In 1996, 2% answered yes; 89%, no; 9% not sure. Will there be a resurgence of nuclear power? In 1994, 37% answered yes; 46%, no; 17% were not sure. In 1995, 31% answered yes; 46%, no; 23% were not sure. In 1996, 8% answered yes; 80%, no; 12% were not sure. The report goes on to state, "The sharp decline in the number of respondents expecting a resurgence of nuclear power is significant. It leaves little hope that new nuclear generation will remain an option for utilities in a time frame that has any practical significance."
[From Public Citizen's Critical Mass Energy Project.]

From GLW issue 220