As part of my job, I have read peak oil production – this is why I feel so strongly about promotion of nuclear power.Some things (like needing petrol to run cars) are harder to change than utilising biomass for electricity. Although, if ever given a choice, I WOULD choose to run my car on solar power or whatever rather petrol.

There are other alternatives that should be explored and properly identified before nuclear is put on the agenda. If we have an energy crisis and it means the end of all airconds, by all means. At the moment, there is no need to.If we are in a country where this is the only option, by all means, go ahead.

And the thing I have about the UK is that there has been no in depth studies done in upgrading the safety of nuclear reactors – with Blair running around saying that nuclear is the way to go BEFORE a study that was supposed to explore ALL energy options is published.

It will be interesting to see it, as it will be out this week.

That all said, can someone please explain why petrol is called gas in the US? I have been stuck with saying that for the past 5 years and there are loads of people that think me mad

The US is no longer “rich” in oil. It is a net importer country. The President may have made money in oil but he made more money in inheritance and baseball.

Now that said, both the UK and the US have a good track record when it comes to nuclear energy in terms of its military. Both nations set high standards of quality control, technical requirements and safety assurance. The United States Navy ( where I once served), has had ZERO incidents. There safety standards are tough though and tolerance for deviation …..not at all.

If you read my blog you know I am know fan of the President and you are correct about China and its energy consumption. That said though, think about it: A small nation like Malaysia that could have a huge supply of electricity at its beck and call from a nuclear reactor. One that once paid for , would bne paid for. That could light most of the country beyond KL.

There have to be alternatives to oil; I invite you to read some of the literature on peak oil
( the theory that oil production has peaked and we are on the back side of the curve). Malaysia has the people with the work ethic to make nuclear power work.

Then again, I can’t see Singapore or Indonesia happy about Malaysia with a nuclear reactor. So you pays your money and takes your chances.

Bottom line? Life suckes without aircon. If this keeps it running for Malaysia, it is probably worth it.

My .02 RINGGIT………….