California heads toward energy suicide

Over the years there have been any number of predictions that in terms of geophysical stability, the entire state of California will one day simply slide into the Pacific ocean. Political instability in California may yet produce tectonic changes in the energy landscape. An initiative to put a ballot item up for a vote could wind up closing the states two nuclear power stations.

The proposal, which will require more than half a million valid signatures to get on the Fall 2012 ballot, would remove an exemption in state law that allows the San Onofre and Diablo Canyon nuclear reactors to continue to operate. The law bans construction of new nuclear power plants until the federal government establishes a long-term solution for disposition of spent nuclear fuel.


Anti-nuclear groups have for years tried all sorts of tactics to close the reactors, and now Ben Davis, Jr., of Santa Cruz may have found one for them. Davis, a long-time anti-nuclear activist, has started the ball rolling and produced instant alarm in Sacramento.

The State Legislative Analyst's office says the loss of the reactors, which supply 16% of the state's electricity, would have a "profound effect" on the stability of the electric grid."

The office also predicted rolling blackouts and huge business losses. While green groups say the replacement power would come from solar and wind power, these sources are much more expensive than nuclear. Green groups may wind up having the state to themselves as businesses stampede for the exits before someone turns out the lights.