Many signs point to an imminent rebound for nuclear power in this country. Utility company decision-makers realize, however, that public opposition is not dead, just hibernating. For that reason, company CEOs are even more cautious in approaching new nuclear projects than traditional utility conservatism would dictate. For the fifth consecutive year, U.S. nuclear power plants set records for reliability and total output in 2002. Nuclear production costs continue to be among the lowest in the business. Thanks to strong support from the White House, and cooperation from a majority in Congress, the high-level nuclear waste issue is now closer to resolution than ever. Four companies have indicated they will soon apply for construction permits for new nuclear plants. Energy legislation pending in Congress strongly supports nuclear power expansion. In short, there are many positive factors influencing the future of nuclear power in the U.S.
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