French speaking Switzerland and its electric energy

With rising consumption of electricity in Switzerland, fears are growing that lack of adequate supplies may cause economic under-development of this region. At present, hydraulic power accounts for 69% of generated electricity, nuclear power 29% and thermal power 2%. Some 70% of generated energy is for production in its various forms. The cost factor should favour nuclear energy. But this would entail building additional nuclear power stations and the solution of the problem of disposal of radio-active waste. The electricity industry has created CEDRA for dealing with the problem of storage of such waste, and CEL, the Lucens Study Consortium to explore the possibilities of storing vitreous containers of radio-active materials in the Swiss rock formations. Although scientists and technicians believe this to be feasible, plans are subject to government approval. (P.F.K.)