Thursday February 28, 2013
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Nuclear Energy
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Idaho has a unique place in the history of nuclear energy. The first nuclear power plant in the world was located at what is now the Idaho National Laboratory (INL), near Arco in Butte County. In July 1955, Arco was the first city ever to be lit by atomic energy.
The INL has provided more than 50 years of service to our nation's energy security and defense. As a U.S. Senator representing Idaho and a lifelong resident of Idaho Falls, the importance of the INL is one that I understand well. The mission at the INL is also very important to the region and the nation.
The INL has a long history of interacting and responding to the needs of the surrounding community. The dedicated workforce continues to provide a invaluable service to the nation. As the lab revises its mission, it gains further potential to grow and continue to provide valuable jobs, improve infrastructure, facilitate technology transfer, and create commerce throughout the state of Idaho. Changes at the INL will account for the importance of community interaction and will emphasize community development initiatives, including the creation of new jobs. Proper management of the site and a focus on the new mission is vital. I will continue to press for efficient, effective management as the lab changes and grows.
The Global Nuclear Energy Partnership (GNEP) is an effort that has significance to Idaho. As part of the President's Advanced Energy Initiative, its mission is to provide greater energy security in a cleaner, safer world. The intent is to develop worldwide consensus on using economical, carbon-free nuclear energy to meeting growing electricity demands. For the latest regarding GNEP, please visit the U.S. Department of Energy website.
My questioning of Energy Secretary Steven Chu on nuclear waste stored at the INL, Yucca Mountain and the federal budget at a Senate Budget hearing on March 11, 2009. |
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