a16z Podcast A Nuclear Comeback: Are New Reactors the Answer?
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Mar 15, 2024 
Join David Ulevich, a General Partner at Andreessen Horowitz, Doug Bernauer, CEO of Radiant, and Dr. Kathryn Huff, Assistant Secretary of Nuclear Energy, as they explore the nuclear energy renaissance in the U.S. They discuss the groundbreaking advancements in portable microreactors and the impact of new policies on the industry's future. The conversation highlights nuclear power's role in energy security amidst climate challenges and emphasizes the collaboration between private innovation and government initiatives to revitalize nuclear energy for a cleaner, sustainable future.
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Nuclear Slowdown
- Nuclear energy progress slowed in the last 50 years, partly due to the low cost of natural gas.
- This made it a cheaper and faster energy option for utilities, hindering nuclear development.
Public Perception Shift
- Public perception of nuclear energy has been influenced by the rise of solar and wind power.
- These renewable sources, while not always resilient, addressed climate concerns and offered a seemingly low-cost alternative.
Fuel Cycle Vulnerability
- Fuel cycle security is a national security vulnerability, impacting energy resilience.
- Unlike natural gas, which can be disrupted, nuclear plants require less frequent refueling, enhancing energy independence.