The go-ahead for Britain's first new nuclear power station in 20 years,
Hinkley Point C, marks a major change of policy. This book traces the
UK's nuclear energy history, from the optimism of the 1950s, through the
disillusionment of the 1980s to a new role for nuclear in the 21st
century.
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How the dreams of cheap electricity and export success died.
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How privatizing the electricity industry revealed the wishful thinking
of the nuclear sector.
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- Why improved management gave the privatized nuclear stations a new
lease of life.
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How the 2008 Climate Change Act unexpectedly encouraged 'new nuclear'.
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Criticism of the industry:
- "Why has it taken so long to get new reactors?" v. "If we wait a few
years, a solar revolution will provide affordable, low-risk power"
- Was this the right choice?
- Concerns about the prices future consumers will have to pay.