Publication Laka-library:
Mirage & oasis. Energy choices in the age of global warming (costs)

AuthorN.E.F
6-01-0-10-71.pdf
Date2005
Classification 6.01.0.10/71 (COSTS)
Front

From the publication:

Mirage and oasis
Energy choices in an age of global warming
The trouble with nuclear power and the
potential of renewable energy
nef is an independent think-and-do
tank that inspires and demonstrates
real economic well-being.
We aim to improve quality of life by
promoting innovative solutions that
challenge mainstream thinking on
economic, environmental and social
issues. We work in partnership and
put people and the planet first.




nef (the new economics foundation) is a registered charity founded in 1986 by the leaders of The Other Economic Summit (TOES),
which forced issues such as international debt onto the agenda of the G7/G8 summit meetings. We have taken a lead in helping
establish new coalitions and organisations, such as the Jubilee 2000 debt campaign; the Ethical Trading Initiative; the UK Social
Investment Forum; and new ways to measure social and environmental well-being.
Nuclear power is being promoted as the answer to climate change and energy
insecurity. But, as a response to global warming, it is too slow, too expensive and
too limited. And in an age of terrorist threats, it is more of a security risk than a
solution. Instead, the characteristics of a flexible, safe, secure and climate friendly
energy supply system apply to renewable energy. In comparison, it leaves no
toxic legacy and is abundant and cheap to harvest both in the UK and globally.




Contents

Summary                                      2

Overview                                     5

Renewable energy technologies: an overview   11

Microrenewable energy:
flexible, secure, clean and effective        15

The prospect for nuclear power               25

Nuclear power: what are the real costs?      34

Conclusion                                   42

Glossary                                     46

Endnotes                                     47
Summary

Individually renewable energy sources like wind, solar and
geothermal could, in theory, meet all of the world’s energy