'Asia’s non-nuclear energy options'

from jakarta post........

"Japanese premier, Naoto Kan, has called for an end to the country’s nuclear energy program. This follows a similar pledge made by German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Before the triple tragedy that struck Japan and problems with the Fukushima nuclear reactors, such decisions would have been unimaginable. 

Predictions were instead for a nuclear energy renaissance, with the promise of abundant, cheap power that is low in carbon emissions. Post-Fukushima, long-standing minorities of anti-nuclear protestors have gained wider support in society. 

But is going non-nuclear a workable policy? Or is it simply caving in to popular but temporary and perhaps overstated fears? 

In Japan, Premier Kan’s call is already facing opposition from pro-nuclear energy companies and LDP Opposition politicians. With PM Kan’s low poll ratings, some suggest neither he nor the policy will last. 

Beyond the shadow of Fukushima, others across Asia must take into account a wider energy challenge. In the global financial crisis, worldwide energy consumption paused. But Asia continues to grow, despite the dour economic outlook in the US and Europe, and so does its energy needs. Some talk of a power shift to Asia, but what is most certain is that Asians need more power"................READ MORE