Policy alternatives of the major energy-importing nations. [Review]
The major energy-importing nations appear to be on a course that offers little hope of weakening OPEC's control over the price of oil or reducing their vulnerability to another Arab oil embargo. The only fundamental solution to the problems of increased oil prices and threats to the security of energy supplies is through reduced dependence on imported oil. In the near term, primary reliance must be on energy conservation measures. Over the longer run, it is important to develop alternative energy sources. Higher domestic energy prices would further the achievement of both of these objectives. Since U.S. energy prices are substantially below those in Western Europe and Japan, the United States must take the lead in raising prices. Without nuclear energy, the prospects of the major energy-importing countries would be even bleaker than they now are. Increasing reliance on nuclear energy appears unavoidable for many years to come. For this reason, high priority must be given to coping with the international problems created by the use of nuclear power to generate electricity. Serious consideration should be given to strengthening both the capabilities of the IAEA and its legal authority to deal with the danger that weapons-grade nuclear fuel will be diverted to criminal or unauthorized military uses. Similarly, means of delaying the move to a plutonium fuel economy should be pursued. The problem of disposing of nuclear wastes in ways that do not pose long-term threats to the environment is also properly a matter of international concern. If these wastes are to be disposed of in the oceans, in outer space, or in the Antarctic, an international institution may have to be created to make certain that safe procedures are followed. 25 references.
- Research Organization:
- Brookings Institution, Washington, DC
- OSTI ID:
- 7088130
- Journal Information:
- Annu. Rev. Energy; (United States), Vol. 2
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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