An event sponsored by the Master of Science and Environmental Studies program at the College of Charleston will look at the future of nuclear energy and how it may be a solution for the critical energy issues of today. The discussion will be held Wednesday, November 7, 2012 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in room 129 of the School of Sciences and Mathematics Building at 202 Calhoun Street. It is free and open to the public.

Experts from a number of energy companies and representatives from Clean Energy America will lead the discussion and answer questions. Clean Energy America (CEA) is made up of young engineers and scientists across the country. They volunteer their time to participate in presentations and debates about the benefits of nuclear energy as a clean, reliable and affordable source of energy.

“Many of our students are interested in energy issues, and their research interests have been tied to renewable energy and sustainability,” says MES program coordinator Mark McConnel. “Whether or not you think about nuclear energy as a ‘clean’ energy, this presentation should spur a lively debate.”

CEA presentations look at how a mix of energy sources can meet the growing demands for electricity across the globe. Approximately 20% of the electricity in the United States comes from nuclear energy, and members of CEA argue that we need to continue to use nuclear energy to reduce our CO2 emissions. They also discuss radioactive waste disposal, nuclear plant safety, the cost of electricity, global climate change and the future of renewable energy sources.

For more information, contact Mark McConnell at 843.953.2000 or mcconnelm@cofc.edu