Clark Public Utilities is apparently considering participation in a “small” nuclear power generating scheme to be operated in Richland by Energy Northwest, the agency formerly known as “Whoops” (WPPSS). (“Nuclear power may again be on horizon for Clark County,” The Columbian, June 2).
While nuclear electricity does have the virtue of not emitting greenhouse gases, the waste disposal and safety issues involved remain strong negatives.
Instead, Clark Public Utilities should focus on local small-scale solar power generation. There are hundreds, perhaps thousands, of suitable south- and west-facing roofs and clear areas in the county that could easily be used for electric power generation. If you have enough roofs with solar panels, you would not need a nuclear power plant with all of its serious drawbacks. As a bonus, local small solar contractors could do the setup work, and homeowners would benefit from an increase in the value of their real estate.
