A Radical Reboot of Nuclear Energy
11Digest
The episode of The Daily focuses on the renewed interest in nuclear power as a clean energy source to combat climate change. Brad Plumer, a climate reporter for The New York Times, discusses the challenges and opportunities associated with this revival, including the high cost of building new plants, the need for specialized fuel, and the regulatory approval process. He also highlights Terrapower, a nuclear power company founded by Bill Gates, which is developing a safer and more affordable reactor design using liquid sodium instead of water. The podcast then shifts to the Darien Gap, a dangerous jungle border crossing between Colombia and Panama, where Julie Turquitz, a reporter for The New York Times, shares her experience traveling through this treacherous route to understand the motivations behind migration. The episode concludes with a news update on climate change, emphasizing its long-term impact on global weather patterns and the need for effective solutions.
Outlines
Nuclear Power's Comeback and the Darien Gap
This episode explores the resurgence of nuclear power as a clean energy solution, examining the challenges and opportunities it presents, and delves into the Darien Gap migration route.
Terrapower: Bill Gates' Nuclear Power Venture
Brad Plumer explains Terrapower's innovative approach to nuclear power, using liquid sodium instead of water, and the company's goal of building a cheaper, safer reactor.
News Update: Climate Change
Climate change refers to the long-term shift in global weather patterns, primarily caused by human activities that release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
Keywords
Nuclear Power
Nuclear power is a form of energy generation that uses nuclear fission to produce heat, which is then used to generate electricity. It is considered a clean energy source as it does not produce greenhouse gases.
Terrapower
Terrapower is a nuclear power company founded by Bill Gates, aiming to revolutionize nuclear power technology by developing a safer and more affordable reactor design.
Liquid Sodium
Liquid sodium is a metal used as a coolant in Terrapower's reactor design. It operates at lower pressures than water, potentially reducing the need for heavy components and safety features.
Darien Gap
The Darien Gap is a dense jungle region spanning the border of Colombia and Panama. It is a dangerous and challenging route for migrants seeking to reach the United States.
Bill Gates
Bill Gates is a renowned philanthropist and co-founder of Microsoft. He is a prominent investor in Terrapower, demonstrating his commitment to finding solutions for climate change.
Climate Change
Climate change refers to the long-term shift in global weather patterns, primarily caused by human activities that release greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
Q&A
What are the main challenges facing the revival of nuclear power?
The main challenges include the high cost of building new plants, the need for specialized fuel, and the regulatory approval process.
How does Terrapower's reactor design differ from traditional nuclear power plants?
Terrapower uses liquid sodium instead of water as a coolant, which operates at lower pressures and potentially reduces the need for expensive safety features.
What is the significance of Bill Gates' involvement in Terrapower?
Bill Gates' investment and commitment to Terrapower demonstrate his belief in the potential of nuclear power to address climate change and his willingness to take risks on innovative technologies.
What are the potential benefits of nuclear power in the context of climate change?
Nuclear power is a clean energy source that does not produce greenhouse gases, making it a valuable tool in the fight against climate change.
What are the risks associated with nuclear power?
Nuclear power plants pose risks of radiation leaks and the production of radioactive waste. However, the safety record of nuclear power in the U.S. has been relatively good due to strict regulations and safety features.
Show Notes
Nuclear power, once the great hope for a clean way to meet the world’s energy needs, fell out of favor decades ago.
Brad Plumer, who covers technology and policy efforts to address global warming for The New York Times, explains how one company with a radical idea is now working to bring it back.
Guest: Brad Plumer, who covers technology and policy efforts to address global warming for The New York Times.
Background reading:
- Work is starting in Wyoming coal country on a new type of reactor. Its main backer, Bill Gates, says he’s in it for the emissions-free electricity.
For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.
Table of contents
United States
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