Nuclear Energy Now: Why the Time Has Come for the World's Most Misunderstood Energy Source

A timely and thought-provoking solution to the world's energy shortfall

The dramatic increases in oil and natural gas prices, the finite supply of fossil fuels, and concerns over emissions and global warming are forcing us to consider alternatives. In this measured and knowledgeable book, energy experts Alan Herbst and George Hopley argue that the time has come for the U.S. to revitalize its nuclear generation assets in order to successfully meet growing domestic electricity requirements and lessen our dependence on foreign sources of energy. Nuclear Energy Now provides an informed look at the benefits and drawbacks associated with this controversial alternative to traditional energy sources.

It opens with a brief overview of commercial nuclear development in the U.S. during the past half-century and moves on to discuss what the future may hold if new initiatives-supported by the Energy Policy Act of 2005-gain traction. Along the way, readers will find informed insights into why the need for nuclear power has become so critical and how we can safely add capacity in the coming years. Exploring all of the issues related to developing America's nuclear energy capabilities safely and cost-effectively, Nuclear Energy Now is a must-read for anyone concerned about our oil dependency, the environment, and future of the nation.

Alan M. Herbst has twenty years' experience in energy consulting and is the General Partner of Utilis Energy, LLC, a strategic consulting firm based in New York. In recent years, he has focused his efforts on emerging energy technologies and markets, specifically nuclear power, the Alberta oil sands, coal gasification technologies, and the growing global LNG market. Herbst has also held energy analysis and consulting positions with the PIRA Energy Group and Standard & Poor's. He has an MBA in finance and international business from New York University's Stern School of Business.

George W. Hopley is Associate Director of commodity research at Barclays Capital in New York. He analyzes wholesale power and gas markets; distributes daily, weekly, and quarterly reports to an estimated 1,500 clients; and assists the sales and trading team and other parts of the bank. Prior to his current position at Barclays, Hopley served as senior director of research and analysis for Duke Energy in Houston, a director of market research at Enron North America, and an economist at PIRA Energy Group in New York.