Experts Propose New Process for Nuclear Reactor Retirements to Protect Ratepayers, Local Communities, and the Climate

Media Advisory – November 28, 2018 at 11am EST

Experts Propose New Process for Nuclear Reactor Retirements to Protect Ratepayers, Local Communities, and the Climate

Nuclear Subsidy/Bailout Programs are Costing Consumers Billions of Dollars, Failing to Protect Workers and Communities

Lessons Learned from States Show Faster, Cost-Effective Approach to Reactor Closures is Needed to Advance Climate Solutions, Grid Modernization

WASHINGTON, D.C. – NEWS ADVISORY – Nuclear reactors are set to retire in increasing numbers in the coming years, due to advanced age and economic pressures. State policymakers have struggled to balance the demands of utility companies, local communities, consumers, and environmentalists for sensible, cost-effective approaches to reactor closures. Subsidies enacted in four states are expected to cost consumers billions of dollars over the next decade. Safe-energy organization, Nuclear Information and Resource Service, will publish a white paper proposing a cost-effective way to manage reactor closures while protecting workers, communities, and the environment.

The white paper, “Nuclear Reactor Closures: Practical, Cost-Effective Solutions for Communities and the Climate,” makes a strong case for why states should plan for nuclear retirements proactively as a timely, prudent and economical option to battle climate change. Copies of the paper are available to review in advance, upon request.

Experts will include:

• Tim Judson, Executive Director, Nuclear and Information and Resource Service
• Damon Moglen, Senior Strategic Adviser, Friends of the Earth
• Dave Kraft, Director, Nuclear Energy Information Services

TO PARTICIPATE: Dial 1-712-770-4160 by 10:55am EST Wednesday (November 28^th).

Use passcode 723281#

IF YOU CANNOT PARTICIPATE: A streaming audio recording of the media briefing will be available at www.nirs.org by 5 p.m. on November 28^th.

MEDIA CONTACT:  Tim Judson, (301) 270-6477 or nirs@nirs.org.

ABOUT NIRS

2018 marks the 40th anniversary of Nuclear Information & Resource Service.  NIRS was founded to be the national information and networking center for citizens and environmental activists concerned about nuclear power, radioactive waste, radiation and sustainable energy issues. www.nirs.org