Even though supplies of finite resources, in particular fossil fuels, are getting depleted, the demand for it as an energy resource continues to grow. These are some of the reasons, along with growing evidence of pollution and global warming, that are driving industry and consumers to cry out for a much needed solution to the world energy crisis. One thing that we can do to help the situation is build solar power. It's easier than you might realize.
Some suggest that the solution might be found by making innovative technological improvements to an existing source of energy- nuclear power. Currently, nuclear power supplies 16 percent of the world's energy.
Unlike coal, natural gas, or oil-all nonrenewable and subject to price volatility-nuclear power plants are fueled by uranium, a relatively abundant element that occurs naturally in the earth's crust. Plus, nuclear energy is the world's largest source of emission-free energy. Nuclear power plants produce no controlled air pollut-ants or greenhouse gases.
One of the latest developments in the production of nuclear energy comes from Westinghouse Electric Company. The AP1000 has been called the most economical and safest nuclear power plant available in the world today. It is the original reactor of this class to receive the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's Design Certification.
Based on 20 years of research and development, the reactor builds on the proven technology of major components used in current Westinghouse-designed plants. These components include steam generators, digital instrumentation and controls, fuel, reactor coolant pumps and integrated engineering-and have years of reliable operating experience.
Launching off of the existing technology design, the new and improved reactor is viewed as having great advantages over other types of reactors, such as improved safety, more efficient, and more economical.
By their innovative approach to safety, the AP1000 requires less human intervention and therefore there is less potential for human error. Its simplified construction design can lead to significant savings in plant costs and an accelerated construction schedule.
If you are looking to build solar power for your home to get away from public energy dependency, take a look at our review of a do-it-yourself build solar power kit. Start your research of the many available kits here.
Ralph Somers
Moderator of Ralph's Green Energy Guide
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