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Sri Lanka should not go nuclear

groundviews September 15, 2009
“………….nuclear energy is not a viable option for energy generation in Sri Lanka as it is not safe, cost effective or emission free as proponents of nuclear energy suggest. The article advocates that the Sri Lankan Government should explore and invest in renewable energy sources to manage Sri Lanka’s energy needs in the future.

The ugly truth about nuclear energyNuclear energy is not cost effective – initial costs of installing a nuclear power plant are exorbitant and this will be passed through to the taxpayers over the years. In addition nuclear power is one of the most protected and subsidized industries globally,

“In the mid-1990s, governments worldwide were subsidising fossil fuels and nuclear power to the tune of US$250-300 billion per annum. Global subsidies for conventional (fossil fuel and nuclear) energy remain many magnitudes higher than those for more benign alternatives such as efficiency and renewables” (Medical Association for Prevention of War- Australia)

The Government will also incur additional costs for exploration, extraction and transportation of material, maintainance of plant, and providing high-end security to the material and the plant. These costs too will be passed on to the people.In addition if a nuclear accident occurs in the island the people will be burdened with the cost of decontamination and health care.Therefore generating electricity from nuclear power is an expensive process and not a one-time investment……………..

Nuclear power could pose a regional security threat – The volatility of the South Asian region dictates that nuclear power plants pose a major security risk for the entire region. Terrorism, sabotage and 9/11 style attacks on nuclear reactors would create massive destruction. Therefore it is irresponsible to construct new nuclear power plants rather than phase out and close existing plants…………………….

Raising awareness against using nuclear power

Unfortunately the public debate on nuclear energy in Sri Lanka is almost non-existent. Proponents of nuclear energy allege that nuclear energy has been unfairly demonized. The Atomic Energy Authority of Sri Lanka has initiated the Young Nuclear Scientists’ Society (YNSS) with the aim of attracting the younger generation to using nuclear power. In this situation there is an urgent need to generate public debate on nuclear energy generation so that Sri Lanka can make informed energy polices. Nuclear energy is not an energy option for Sri Lanka and Sri Lankans must take a stand now.

groundviews » Pitfalls of Sri Lanka going nuclear – Opening the public debate

September 17, 2009 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | 1, ASIA, politics | antinuclear, nuclear, nuclear wastes, nuclear weapons, radiation, radioactive, uranium