There has been much debate in regards to shutting down the power plant at Indian Point, New York. The Plant, located in Buchanan, New York, has been one of the top power sources for NYC since its start in 1962. According to the New York Times, “the plant, which is now owned by Entergy, has encountered a string of accidents and mishaps since its beginning and has appeared on the federal list of the nation’s worst nuclear power plants”, which demonstrates one reason why many believe it should be shut down.
New York’s Governor, Andrew Cuomo ordered it to be shut down permanently, although the Nuclear Regulatory Commission said it would review the plant and allow New York officials to take part in it’s review. Governor Cuomo has made it his goal to completely redesign and reshape New Yorks current energy policies and regulations. Closing the power plant would be a huge step in what he feels is the best direction for his state to take. However replacing the energy provided by the plant would take a long time and a lot of money, something most American’s don’t have. The plant provides approximately ¼ of the power in NYC and other counties just north of the city. Closing of this plant would therefore cause potential power failures. The closing would also put its workers out of employment. In a society where the job market is slim to none, this would be devastating to the plants employees and families.
Below is an image of Governor Cuomo.
But Governor Cuomo has continued to warn that he will insist the two reactors be closed in 2013 and 2015. Many who oppose this argue that the state doesn’t have the funds to even begin dismantling a reactor. (Many say it could cost nearly $1 billion per reactor to disassemble and move to places where it can be kept). They also say replacement options cannot be created in the amount of time the governor has allotted.
There is a positive feeling for some however; as many believe there is a way to create more efficient energy that offers far less emissions. With the global warming crisis ever present, many argue the best option is to close the plant and figure out a better plan. The Fukishima disaster also brought many to support the shutting down of the plant, as people fear a disaster at the Indian Point Plant.
The debate will likely continue until the plant is either destroyed, or plans to close it change. Regardless, there will be positives and negatives no matter the outcome. All we can agree on is its time to think carefully before building any future energy plants.
Sources:
http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/subjects/i/indian_point_nuclear_power_plant_ny/index.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_Point_Energy_Center
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/13/nyregion/vision-for-cheap-power-even-if-indian-point-nuclear-plant-is-closed.html
http://www.politicker.com/2012/03/08/rudy-giuliani-says-closing-the-indian-point-nuclear-plant-would-be-a-catastrophe-for-new-york-city/