Governor adds nuclear power option to thre West Virginia energy portfolio
– Edited by Mark McFadden –
According to a report in the REGISTER-HERALD REPORTER, Nuclear power is back on the table as part of Gov. Joe Manchin’s energy portfolio. Prior to exiting a recent meeting of the Senate Finance Committee, members made sure the bill contained nuclear power and natural gas.
“Our purpose is to stay ahead and be proactive in what we do here in West Virginia,” Sen. Mike Green, D-Raleigh, said.
Green’s Energy, Industry and Mining Committee wrestled with nuclear power over a bill that would drop an “effective ban” in current state code.
Unable to agree, the full panel established a subcommittee, which dumped the bill that would remove the requirement a plant needs a site for disposing of radioactive wastes.
Manchin told The Register-Herald this year during an editorial board interview he wanted to see the entire gamut of energy considered — solar, wind, water and even nuclear.
Green was pleased with the finance panel’s decision to revive atomic power, and so was Sen. Brooks McCabe, D-Kanawha, who pushed the earlier legislation.
“I think it’s an alternative source of energy,” he said.
“I’ve talked to numerous people in the coal association and they have no problems with this. They understand the bigger picture. We’re all in this to try to position West Virginia to be a predominant producer, a major producer of energy.”
One observer noted “I believe the governor is doing a great thing in promoting renewable and alternatives if we truly want to be recognized as a leader in energy. This is the way the nation is going.”