CASEnergy Co-Chair Gov. Whitman Emphasizes Role of Nuclear Power in Meeting Michigan and Nation’s Energy Needs
LANSING, MI, September 18, 2007 – Former EPA Administrator and Governor of New Jersey Christine Todd Whitman addressed the Michigan Chamber of Commerce Future Forum today in a speech highlighting nuclear energy’s potential in Michigan.
“In this country, we are often good at saying no to many things, but if we want to continue to enjoy the quality of life we have today, we will have to start saying yes to a broad energy mix – one that very much includes nuclear,” said Whitman.
Whitman drew upon a number of facts to underscore the reality of Michigan’s future energy needs. By the year 2030, the state’s overall electricity demand is projected to increase by 16%. Coal and natural gas currently combine to supply 70% of Michigan’s electricity, while nuclear energy provides around 26%. With only two decades remaining in which to tackle the problem, there is a major case to be made for nuclear energy to meet this demand while limiting environmental repercussions.
“Across the United States, support for nuclear energy is growing,” said Whitman. “What I have found in my travels, and what surveys have validated, is that when people know a few basic facts about nuclear energy, their minds are opened.”
Michigan members of the CASEnergy Coalition include several state legislators, such as Speaker Andy Dillon, Sen. Buzz Thomas and Rep. Ebli, the Sterling Heights, Detroit, Grand Rapids and Lansing Chambers of Commerce, the Michigan State Medical Society, American Chemical Technologies, Inc., and unions ranging from the Operating Engineers to the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.
