Electricity supply

In the 1960s and early 1970s, nuclear power plants offered economic and environmental advantages over coal plants; most were completed on time and at reasonable cost and still operate today, providing economical, reliable electricity. In the 1970s, a series of events, beginning with the 1973-74 recession and culminating with the Three Mile Island accident, adversely affected the nuclear industry. This report discusses how reviving the nuclear option requires increased public acceptance and reduced financial risks. The public's concerns about safety need to be allayed through the safe, efficient operation of current plants and improved designs. In addition, escalating costs-stemming in part form an outmoded licensing process and unanticipated actions by state agencies and public interest groups-must be alleviated