I read recently how that the federal government had solicited states to submit proposals of interest regarding their potential candidacy to become a Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus. The plans include a $50 billion capital investment, $10 billion in tax revenues and the creation of 25,000 jobs.
Twenty-six States responded favorably, recognizing that nuclear power is the best option for meeting America’s burgeoning electricity demand while protecting the environment. Instead of investigating this rare opportunity that would diversify our economy and bring high-paying tech jobs to our area, Nevada’s politicians condemned the concept without a thoughtful analysis.
Nevada desperately needs to consider stable business alternatives to the dominant hospitality industry, especially if that option is not subject to fluctuations in the economy, oil prices and the ups and downs of business and leisure travel. Nevada is ideally suited to benefit from this innovative project, which would provide enhanced job opportunities and put Nevada at the forefront of this rapidly growing energy sector. Perhaps it’s time for state leaders to rethink stale views on nuclear power industry opportunities.
