Moderator: Peak Moderation
In his book Prescription for the Planet, the environmentalist Tom Blees explains the remarkable potential of integral fast reactors (IFRs). These are nuclear power stations which can run on what old plants have left behind.
Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates confirmed on Wednesday he is in discussions with China to jointly develop a new kind of nuclear reactor.
"The idea is to be very low-cost, very safe and generate very little waste," said Gates during a talk at China's Ministry of Science and Technology.
Gates has largely funded a Washington state-based company, TerraPower, that is developing a Generation IV nuclear reactor, which can run on depleted uranium.
The general manager of state-owned China National Nuclear Corporation, Sun Qin, was quoted in Chinese media last week saying Gates was working with it to research and develop a reactor.
"TerraPower is having very good discussions with CNNC and various people in the Chinese government," said Gates, cautioning that they were at an early stage.
Gates says perhaps as much as a billion dollars will be put into research and development over the next five years.
TerraPower says its traveling wave reactor would run for decades on depleted uranium and produce significantly smaller amounts of nuclear waste than conventional reactors.
"All these new designs are going to be incredibly safe," Gates told the audience. "They require no human action to remain safe at all times."
He said they also benefit from an ability to simulate earthquake and tidal wave conditions. "It takes safety to a new level," he said.
Since leaving Microsoft, Gates has concentrated on philanthropy and advocating on public health, education and clean energy issues.
I'd prefer them buried directly underneath those who want them.RenewableCandy wrote:Perhaps if they could be installed deep underground
