Nuclear

Residents living near nuclear power plants in the US support such facilities more than the public at large, according to a Bisconti Research survey commissioned by the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI).

The survey, which was conducted jointly with Quest Global Research, was carried out on residents living within ten miles of the 61 nuclear energy facilities that generate one-fifth of America’s electricity.

Approximately 82% believe that the used nuclear fuel assemblies, which are the byproduct of electricity generated at nuclear power plants, should be consolidated at temporary storage facilities, while the US Department of Energy should develop a permanent repository.

According to the survey, 90% agreed that the government should develop a disposal facility for used nuclear fuel as long as the site meets the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s protective requirements.

The survey found that 62% living near nuclear plants have confidence that used nuclear fuel rods are safely stored at reactor sites.

Around 85% said that used fuel rods can be transported safely as long as secure containment and proper procedures are used.

"The survey found that 62% living near nuclear plants have confidence that used nuclear fuel rods are safely stored at reactor sites."

Bisconti Research president Ann Bisconti said the findings from the survey were in line with results from prior polls, which showed that familiarity makes a difference when it comes to attitudes towards nuclear energy.

"The survey’s findings are consistent with favorable attitudes measured repeatedly among nuclear power plant neighbors," Bisconti said.

"They also show that companies achieve favourable attitudes by operating the plants safely, protecting the environment, providing value to the community, and reaching out to inform their neighbours."

The report found that 81% of plant neighbours favour the use of nuclear energy as one way to provide electricity in the US, while 47% strongly support the use of nuclear energy, compared with 9% who have strongly opposed.

Image: The survey was carried out on residents living within ten miles of the 61 nuclear energy facilities in the US. Photo: courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net.

Energy