NEW PLANTS, OLD PROBLEMS

摘要

Hundreds of new U.S. power plants are planned in the next few years. They include coal-fired, gas-fired, a solar electric power plant in Nevada and others fueled by renewable resources. Even nuclear has re- joined the conversation when it comes to power generation, although when and whether it ever translates into new power plants in the United States remains uncertain. (Start-up construction of a new nuclear power plant hasn't occurred in this country in 32 years.). For manufacturers and other electricity consumers, the impact of these planned additions also remains uncertain. In fact, what is not likely to happen is clearer than what is likely to happen. For example, new generation likely won't lead to lower electricity costs for consumers. Nor will it, by itself, absolutely improve reliability. It's not even likely that all of the currently planned projects will reach fruition. A spokesperson for the Edison Electric Institute, a trade association of U.S. shareholder-owned electric companies, says that as a rule of thumb, "30% to 35% of announced plants get built. There's quite a few variables involved." And others knowledgeable about energy say you can't discuss electricity generation without exam-ining the bigger electric picture, which includes both transmission and regulatory issues.