Solar versus Nuclear—Choosing Energy Futures

Abstract

The prospects for replacing the diminishing supplies of fossil fuels with either solar or nuclear energy as the primary future energy source are examined. The comparative advantages and viability of each system are examined from technical, economic, political, and insitutional standpoints and using Sweden for illustration. The findings indicate that there are many factors in the present supply system that would favor nuclear development, but major changes in insitutional policy and organization are proposed to make solar energy an entirely feasible future option. A long-term commitment to either option is advised against, however, in favor of a flexible energy policy. Proposals are made for transitional solutions to reduce fossil fuels dependence during the 1980s while preserving both solar and nuclear options for the future. Such changes will require a strong element of central planning at the same time that renewable alternatives are locally organized. 205 references, 36 figures, 34 tables.