One of the many sub-debates inside the big debate about how to deal with greenhouse gas emissions concerns nuclear power: How big a part should it be of the world’s energy push?

Since it’s carbon-free and very large-scale (Seabrook can generate roughly half the total electricity output of all New Hampshire’s power plants), many people say it should be central to our future. Since we have no way to handle radioactive waste, it can contribute to the spread of nuclear arms, and since the plants cost mind-boggling amounts of money to build, many people say we should forget it and charge hard at alternative sources.

It’s very complicated. I’m pro-nuclear, but I’m ready to waffle at the drop of an isotope.

We have a miniature version of this debate in New England, concerning the future of the relatively small and dilapidated Vermont Yankee site, which is seeking to extend its operating permit past 2012, when it expires. (Its wikipedia article has a reasonable summary of its history, although some might find it slightly anti-VY; here’s a Reuters story about some recent developments)

Anyway, the issue is so contentious that now there’s a push to take the ultimate New England action: Put it before town meeting!

Tags: nuclear power