Nuclear Energy and Alberta

Yes nuclear energy could be used in Alberta in fact they are currently in the process of developing a nuclear power plant in Northern Alberta near Peace River at Lac Cardinal.  If approved by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission they predict the plant will  be up and running in the year 2017.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUrhs3KwTJ4 

What Environmental Damages Might Arise From the Use of Nuclear Energy?

Nuclear power impacts the environment negatively although Greenpeace is becoming more lenient then they used to be due to the future energy demands that nuclear energy can potentially meet. All of the water used to power the turbines becomes radio active and harmful to humans. The process also creates nuclear waste that needs to be stored properly; if not stored properly, the radiation from the nuclear waste can spread and harm living things by mutations and even death

Can Nuclear Energy Be Used Anywhere In The World At Any Time of The Day or Year?

Nuclear energy can be used anywhere in the world as long as there is a running water source nearby.  The construction of nuclear power plants allows the energy to be used at any time of the day or year because it doesn't rely on environmental factors.

What Are The Economic Costs Involved In Building The Facilities for Nuclear Energy?

For a nuclear power plants initial construction the costs are quite high, $2-2.5 billion dollars but can be upward of $10 billion to have a running plant.

Is Nuclear Energy a Renewable or Non-Renewable Energy Source and Is It Carbon-Free?

Nuclear energy is a non-renewable, carbon-free energy source.  It is non-renewable due to the fact that the uranium we use to produce the energy can't be replenished as fast as we use it.  According to Westinghouse Nuclear, nuclear energy is a carbon emission-free energy source because it does not burn anything to produce electricity.

How Is Nuclear Energy Used In the World?

Nuclear Energy is mainly used to create electricity, but a small portion of nuclear energy is used to power ships and submarines (to help during war situations). According to the World Nuclear Association in 2009, 13-14% of the world's electricity came from nuclear power. 

How Does Nuclear Energy Work?

Nuclear Energy begins with nuclear fission; a heavy fissionable atom is split and large amounts of energy are released during the process. The energy is transferred to steam turbines and generates electricity.