Nearly Nuclear: A Mismanaged Energy Transition

by Leroy Smith

When Consumers Power’s plan to build a nuclear power plant in Midland, Michigan, was announced in 1967, it promised to free Michigan residents from expensive, dirty, coal-fired electricity and to keep Dow Chemical operating in the state. But before the plan could be completed, the facility was called an engineering nightmare, a financial disaster, a construction boondoggle, a political headache, and a regulatory muddle. Most locals had welcomed nuclear power eagerly. Why, after almost twenty years and billions of dollars, did this promise of a high-tech, coal-free, prosperous future fail? And what lessons does its failure offer today as Americans try to develop a clean energy  economy based on renewable power? To answer these questions, energy consultant and author LeRoy Smith carefully traces the design and construction decisions made by Consumers Power, including its choice of reactor and its hiring of the Bechtel Corporation to manage the project. He also details the rapidly changing regulatory requirements and growing public concern about the environmental risks of nuclear power generation. An examination of both the challenges and importance of renewable energy, this book will be of value to anyone interested in grappling with the complexities of our ongoing efforts to eliminate fossil fuels in favor of clean renewable energy.

290 pages, Paperback

Published September 1, 2021

Reviews

[Felicia Melchi Leonard · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting and extremely well researched book that explained a lot of things about my hometown I didn't originally understand. If you like to learn about energy and or Midland history, than this book is for you

[Pam · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting, having grown up in Midland during the 60's and 70's. Everyone else can skip this.

[August Delemeester · Rating 3 out of 5]

Would be interesting for all MBS residents. Short and varied enough to keep your attention.