California Expert Software

Introduction
The New York Times Sunday Magazine ran an article by Jon Gertner, Atomic Balm?, which dares to suggest that nuclear power is an option. This 8 page story is something of a recent first in the liberal press, since nuclear-anything has been verboten up to now. For example, Mr. Gertner notes that Al Gore prominently does not include nuclear power as a solution to our environmental problems. I have been a long-term supporter of nuclear power, and of much accelerated nuclear fusion R&D. While Mr. Gertner underplays the lack of choice we have in this matter, I am heartened.

Introduction

The New York Times Sunday Magazine ran an article by Jon Gertner, Atomic Balm?, which dares to suggest that nuclear power is an option. This 8 page story is something of a recent first in the liberal press, since nuclear-anything has been verboten up to now. For example, Mr. Gertner notes that Al Gore prominently does not include nuclear power as a solution to our environmental problems.

I have been a long-term supporter of nuclear power, and of much accelerated nuclear fusion R&D. While Mr. Gertner underplays the lack of choice we have in this matter, I am heartened.

At last, it appears the issue is now discussable.

While we have had Jeremy Rifkin's Hydrogen Economy, which the Bandit adopted, and a lot of other hair-brained schemes, we have not had down-to-earth practical advice about getting out of our energy dilemma.

The difference is, for example, 2006 has already been declared the hottest summer ever. That is certainly true locally. If the trend of summer temperatures during the last few years is indicative, California's Central Valley, including the Sacramento Valley, is destined to become another Sahara Desert. Peak temperatures may reach 125^o F or higher. That fate is only temporarily avoided by the water coming down from the Sierra snow pack. But the snow pack is disappearing, while flooding and erosion are increasing. Short of major efforts to restrain the water at higher elevations (more dams), all the climate cycles are now working against California. (For the foresighted: move to BC.)

So, it should be obvious we will soon be up against the wall. That is why nuclear isn't just an option; it is mandatory.

Nuclear Gaining Acceptance