Chernobyl Forgotten

Countries in Latin America are becoming increasingly ambitious in their plans to build nuclear power plants. Although there are only six nuclear power plants in Latin America today, by 2025, Mexico expects to build eight; Argentina five; and Brazil four. That is not counting plans by Chile, Venezuela, and Uruguay. Those countries are also considering building several nuclear power plants each.

The motivation behind this drive for nuclear energy is the desire to find alternatives to current power sources. Hydroelectric power has proved consistently erratic. Natural gas supplies are becoming strained amidst rising demand. Finally, while gas may be inexpensive now, the price is likely to rise in coming years.

If the recent drive by Latin American countries to build nuclear power plants is viewed as part of the global green movement, it is certainly encouraging. This movement is also aided by the efforts of Mexico, Peru, Brazil, and Uruguay where the countries are increasingly turning to wind power. It seems as though President Obama is not alone in his support of green energy alternatives.