Larry H. Mason – 1/5/06

This page was last updated on January 7, 2006.

Build another nuke plant; Larry H. Mason; Beaver County Times; January 5, 2006.

Below is a detailed critique of the subject letter.

“There should be another nuclear power plant built in Shippingport.

“It’s much cheaper to heat your house with electric than natural gas or oil. It’s safer, cleaner, quieter and requires less maintenance to heat your home with electricity.”

[RWC] When did it become cheaper to heat your house or water with electricity? Assuming equipment of comparable quality, natural gas and oil have been cheaper than electricity. Why does Mr. Mason think most house in this area are heated by gas? Also, Mr. Mason apparently ignores the fact that many power plants are gas-fired. As the price to heat your house with gas increases, so does the cost of electricity.

“France and many other countries enjoy the many benefits of building more nuclear power plants. Iran and North Korea are teaching their children how to build and enjoy the many benefits of nuclear energy.

“Nuclear power is the future. Beaver County has the infrastructure to build and benefit from another nuclear power plant.

“Let’s do it. Break ground in 2006.”

[RWC] I have no problem with nuclear power plants, but why is Mr. Mason pushing them so heavily? If Mr. Mason’s goal is only more electricity, why is there no enthusiasm for coal-fired plants? I think we need to know something about his employment and/or investments.

Finally, I’m not entirely sure Mr. Mason’s letter is serious given that he held up France, Iran, and North Korea as examples.