Nuclear power generation important in energy sector

Kakinada: The nuclear power generation will be playing an important role in the energy sector in the coming decades, as petroleum reserves will last only for next 40 to 50 years and the solar power has not been cost-effective said Dr A V R Reddy former head of analytical chemistry division Baba Atomic Research Centre, (BARC) Mumbai and chairman of Indian Association of Nuclear Chemists and Allied Scientists (IANCAS).

Inaugurating the two-day workshop on Radio Chemistry and applications of Radio Isotopes at P R Government (Autonomous) College here on Friday Dr Reddy allayed the impression that atomic energy is unsafe and pointed out that it is clean and safe. People should cooperate and encourage the installations of nuclear power units as they are going to play a key role in the energy sector in the coming decades he observed. He also said that there has been a speculation about petroleum reserves, which are expected to last for next the four to five decades. In this connection, he also observed that solar power is not cost-effective.

The senior scientist also explained the benefits of radio isotopes in medical, agriculture and in research works. Dr Reddy also called upon the young scientists to opt for research in material science, to tide over the energy crisis. He reminded that in India there has not been a single nuclear power accident as there is no compromise on safety measures at these units.

Turning his attention towards students, he called upon them to clarify their doubts for better comprehension of the subject. He advised them to interact with the teachers and share the knowledge with fellow students. Enlightening the audience about the activities of IANCAS, he said that the organisation has been proactively engaged in promoting the teaching and research activities in the discipline of Radio Chemistry and applications of Radio Isotopes in Indian Universities and research institutes.

This is being achieved through National workshops as well as publications of books and quarterly thematic bulletins, he revealed. The IANCAS instituted several awards for young researchers, senior scientists to encourage excellence in research and education.

Speaking on the occasion in charge principal T T V Prasad said that the construction of 9,500 MW nuclear power plant at Kovada in Srikakulam district is a welcomed development. He said that it has been estimated that one tonne of Uranium is equivalent to the energy produced by using five million tons of coal. Organising Secretary of the programme Dr M M Pasha explained the objectives of the workshop.