News

Mapping what it would take for a renaissance for nuclear energy

Ars Technica

In an article for Ars Technica, reporter Megan Geuss explores the ways nuclear energy has been struggling — there’s little new reactor construction, and old reactors are shutting down following disasters like Fukushima. Citing MIT’s new nuclear energy study, she writes about how nuclear can overcome these challenges and play a vital role in decarbonization.

Calif. decarbonization may mean more gas exports as western markets seek balance

S&P Global

In an article for S&P Global, Sarah Smith and Ashleigh Cotting speak with MITEI director of research Francis O’Sullivan about the effects California’s proposed zero-emissions plan may have on western natural gas markets. O’Sullivan discusses electrification of heating, carbon-free power grids, and California’s unique climate problems.

Morning Energy newsletter: MIT tries to crack the nuclear nut — again

Politico

In Politico's Morning Energy newsletter, Kelsey Tamborrino writes about MIT's nuclear study and the potential new solutions it offers to reduce reactor cost, including emissions pricing, standardized designs, and passive safety technologies.

Generate newsletter: Nuclear revival needed for climate

Axios

Generate, a newsletter from Axios, discusses MIT's nuclear study and its conclusion that although nuclear power is necessary if we are to achieve deep decarbonization, cost reductions and increased policy support are required before that can occur. The bottom line, the newsletter explains, is that nuclear’s higher cost places a higher price overall on clean energy.

One secret to building affordable nuclear: stick with tried-and-true designs

MIT Technology Review

In an article for the MIT Technology Review, James Temple highlights MIT’s new nuclear study and its conclusion that without cost reductions, nuclear power can never reach its full potential. Temple notes that the report provides some possible solutions: building up a skilled labor force experienced with a particular kind of reactor design, establishing a reliable supply chain, and more.

Nuclear has to use climate crisis to justify high cost, MIT says

Bloomberg

In an article for Bloomberg, Jonathan Tirone writes about MIT’s “landmark report” on nuclear energy, which finds that policy support for clean technologies and cost-reduction strategies such as emissions pricing are critical if nuclear is to play a role in fighting climate change.