The holiday season is fast approaching, which means it’s time to talk to your family about what you’re thankful for this year. So, of course, you’re going to talk about nuclear energy. Some might question you on why you said nuclear energy instead of something like your friends or family. Fear not, we have all the answers to the questions you’re likely to receive.
Is nuclear energy reliable?
Unlike the mashed potatoes that your aunt inexplicably burned, nuclear energy is incredibly reliable. In fact, the DOE cites nuclear as one of America’s most reliable energy sources. With power plants operating at full capacity more than 92% of the time, we can always rely on nuclear.
Is nuclear energy safe?
It is incredibly safe, definitely safer than the green bean casserole at dinner that is somehow both frozen and piping hot. Nuclear power plants maintain the highest standard for operational safety, security, cybersecurity, and emergency preparedness. The industry’s comprehensive safety procedures and stringent federal regulations keep our plants and neighboring communities safe. In fact, lots of communities would love to have nuclear energy local to them.
Is nuclear energy clean?
Cleaner than the turkey that your dad dropped on the floor and served anyways, that’s for sure. Every year, nuclear-generated electricity saves our atmosphere from more than 470 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions that would otherwise come from fossil fuels –that’s equivalent to taking over 100 million passenger vehicles off the road. And yes, that makes nuclear the country’s largest source of clean energy. Actually, nuclear energy produces more electricity on less land than any other clean energy source.
Are other people this thankful for nuclear?
Absolutely. When everyone is arguing over the dinner table about politics or football or whatever normal people talk about, the one thing people across the country agree on is that nuclear energy is good. A clean energy source with support on both sides of the aisle AND has a strong job market is a surefire way to make everyone happy.
A whopping 59% of people support nuclear now, according to a recent Pew poll, way up from 43% in 2020. So, I’d honestly be surprised if MORE people at your holiday gatherings weren’t talking about their love of nuclear.
Hopefully this information helps you get through your dinners without too many headaches. If you need more, Nuclear Matters also put together a great toolkit for advocates and conversation starters for occasions just like this.
We all know the holidays are a stressful time of year for many, but the knowledge that there’s a clean and reliable energy source like nuclear out there can bring some joy to the season and help with some stress. But if not, take some time to enjoy being with your loved ones. Have some laughs, eat some pie, and play some cards. Happy holiday season
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