Nuclear Power as a Clean Energy Option

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American demand for electricity is growing at a faster rate than ever before. With concerns about atmospheric pollutants and the effects of global climate change at the forefront of our minds, nuclear power is recognized as a reliable, carbon-free option.

The environmental impact of electricity generation varies significantly depending on the power source. Coal, for example, is the dirtiest form of power, producing vast amounts of greenhouse gas emissions that exacerbate atmospheric pollutants. In comparison, nuclear energy has one of the lowest rates of greenhouse gas emissions in the electricity generation market. Greenhouse gas emissions released by nuclear power facilities are comparable with those attributed to hydroelectric and wind power facilities.

Though the limited waste and by-products from nuclear power plants may have a negative impact on local environments if handled and stored incorrectly, nuclear energy is considered a clean energy as the process does not emit carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, or nitrogen oxides (three key gases that fall under the category of greenhouse gases). While it can be argued that through the process of mining and enrichment of the necessary uranium, fossil fuels are released into the atmosphere, but it is clear that there are significantly less air pollutants and emissions associated with the nuclear power generation process as a whole.

The nuclear power industry is widely recognized as a clean energy option. With nationwide increases in electricity use at home and on the job, an economy on the rebound, and development and industry on the rise, nuclear power is stepping into the limelight as an attractive replacement of coal or even natural gas-generated power.

Take Florida for example. The electricity generated by the state’s four nuclear plants is enough to power almost two million homes, at any time of day and in all kinds of weather (two values that renewable energy sources like solar or wind power can’t lay claim to). With such a reliable energy source, Florida’s main power providers are able to avoid market-based price fluctuations and provide their customers with clean, reliable electricity.

With nuclear power as a keystone element of the state’s energy strategy, Florida is able to comply with proposed rules under the EPA’s Clean Power Plan, a 2014 plan to cut carbon pollution from power plants across the country. Florida’s nuclear power facilities provide a balanced approach to the state’s power generation facilities. Non-greenhouse gas emitting power like nuclear offsets higher-emitting power sources such as coal and oil. With statewide commitments to building new nuclear facilities, and maintaining older plants, Florida is well on its way to meeting the goals set out by the EPA’s Clean Power Plan.

Energy Services Group International, a utility market staffing company, can help you fill your needs in nuclear, fossil and hydro power plants. Work with our industry experts today to meet the demands of today’s labor market.

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