Daniel Poneman

Daniel Poneman, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and former Deputy Secretary of the US Department of Energy, dives into the evolving landscape of nuclear energy. He discusses the rising demand for electricity driven by artificial intelligence and the increased viability of nuclear power as a clean energy source. Poneman highlights the revival of historical projects like Three Mile Island, examines modern safety advancements, and addresses public perception shifts. The economic factors influencing the nuclear sector's future are also explored.

US Deputy Secretary of Energy Daniel Poneman discusses nuclear power as a key component in decarbonizing the planet. They explore the benefits, risks, and global developments in nuclear energy, highlighting its crucial role in combating climate change alongside renewables. The conversation touches on government support for advanced nuclear technologies, challenges in US nuclear power development, and the sustainability of nuclear power plants in addressing climate change.

The calls for nuclear are growing louder. The Biden administration recently announced that it was putting $6 billion toward saving distressed nuclear power plants from closure, considering them carbon-free alternative to fossil fuels. Elon Musk doubled down, not only calling for an expansion of nuclear energy, but even offering to eat food grown near reactors live on TV.  But its critics argue that expanding nuclear energy is dangerous, costly, and ill-advised.  So, we unearthed from the archives this highly-relevant debate: Should nuclear energy fuel our future?   Arguing in favor of the motion is Kirsty Gogan and Daniel Poneman. Arguing against the motion is Gregory B. Jaczko and Arjun Makhijani. The keynote address comes from Bill Nye. And Emmy award-winning journalist John Donvan moderates.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices