The future of nuclear energy needs smart, creative thinkers. That's why more than 120 experts met up last week to "speed-date" each other's ideas.
Storified by Energy Department ·
Tue, Mar 10 2015 15:28:50
The Department of Energy's Idaho National Laboratory led the charge. More than 120 experts gathered for simultaneous workshops in six different cities, representing National Labs, universities, nonprofits and major companies.
The goal? To answer some of the toughest questions about the future of nuclear energy in America:
— How can we increase energy access for all while reducing cost?
— How can we improve safety and security while reducing environmental impacts?
— How can nuclear energy complement other sources of energy to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change?
The workshops kicked off with energetic remarks by Dr. Lynn Orr, Undersecretary for Science and Energy. "It's about supplying the energy the world needs and at the same time doing a much better job of dealing with climate and other environmental impacts," Orr said. In essence, that's the purpose of our all-of-the-above energy strategy.
To begin, organizers laid out some ground rules to make sure conversations were productive.
Participants presented their ideas, brainstormed in small groups and began to synthesize the winning ideas. Some participants shared their ideas on social media.
To capture the best ideas and do the most good, the ideas will be analyzed and condensed into a brief summary this spring and a full report in the fall. The report will provide recommendations to federal programs dealing with nuclear energy.
Some likened it to a wish list.
Scientists Outline Research Wish List for Nuclear Energy
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - Engineers and researchers from national laboratories and universities around the country said Thursday that the United States needs to develop a proving ground where the latest innovations in nuclear energy can be put to the test instead of losing designs to China and other countries.
Stay tuned for more on the future of nuclear innovation! In the meantime, check out photos from the events.
