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on June 30, 2020
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Dislike Wind and Solar? Support Advanced Nuclear Power! Action Requested Today

Written by Isaac Orr
in Energy

Did you know that a new generation of small-scale advanced nuclear reactors that are smaller and safer than traditional power plants is on the horizon? This is good news. I firmly believe that the only source of electricity generation that will someday be able to beat fossil fuels in terms of reliability and affordability will be advanced nuclear reactors. One reason nuclear power is probably the future is because of the energy density of nuclear fuel. The fission of 1 g of uranium or plutonium per day liberates about 1 MW. This is the energy equivalent of 3 tons of coal or about 600 gallons of fuel oil...

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on May 18, 2020
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At 32 Years Old, I’ve Lasted More Than 1.5 Times Longer Than Most Wind Turbines

Written by Isaac Orr
in Energy

Today is my 32nd birthday. That means so far, I've lasted more than 1.5 times longer than the 20 years useful lifespan of most wind turbines. The short useful lifetime of wind turbines and solar panels is one of the most important, but least-talked about aspects of energy policy. Many people think that once these sources of energy are built, they will provide "free" electricity indefinitely, but this is not anywhere near the reality that we have observed. In the real world,  I'll likely outlive any wind turbine built before the year 2050, which is  the year Governor Walz wants to have...

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on April 22, 2020
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Earth Day: Capitalism is Saving the Planet and Why Environmentalists Should Support Nuclear Power

Written by Isaac Orr
in Energy

Happy Earth Day, everyone! Last year I did a seven-part mini-series on how capitalism is saving the planet, which detailed how capitalist countries routinely have a cleaner environment than countries that don't respect property rights to the extent that we do in the United States. You can look back through those articles if you are interested. Part One: Wealth Makes Health, Eventually Part Two: In Soviet Russia, Air Pollutes You Part Three: Would You Rather Mine in Venezuela? I Didn't Think So Part Four: Ridley: Rejoice, The Earth Is Becoming Greener Part Five: American Farmers Are Saving the Trees Through Innovation Part Six: Minnesota Forests Are Flourishing Part...

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