Fellow Sunriser Peter Van Nort told us why we need a national energy policy and what we all should know about nuclear power.

A graduate of the United States Naval Academy and someone who has spent more than fifty years in all phases of the energy business, Peter emphasized our need for a national energy policy. He discussed nuclear energy in detail, in the process debunking myths about safety dangers that are said to accompany the creation of nuclear energy. As a certified operator of a nuclear plant Peter is more than familiar with the subject.

The United States receives 19% of its energy from nuclear sources (as opposed to France, which receives 80%).The last nuclear power plant went on line in the U.S.in the 1970's, but the Nuclear Regulatory Commission has received applications for the construction of 19 new nuclear facilities. These are being held up by the lack of Congressional approval of bond guarantees.

The many questions posed by members and guests underscored the timeliness of Peter's impressive presentation.