President’s Proposals on Energy

The fact that the Administration’s energy strategy features nuclear energy may surprise some people. Yet it fits in well with our efforts to find sensible alternatives for foreign oil. A study of those alternatives, by the World Resources Institute, found that electric vehicles were one of the best options. These vehicles, when charged with electricity from clean power plants, not only replace oil, but reduce air pollution.

Over the past 30 years, nuclear energy plants have proven to be a steady source of electricity. They operate without producing greenhouse gases. The safety record of U.S. plants, since Three Mile Island, has been exemplary. New, advanced design plants are on the drawing board. These offer enhanced safety and lower costs. There is no reason why they shouldn’t be part of a sensible energy plan.

JOEL I. CEHN

Oakland