Renewable Energy Agency Says No Nukes

Good news for those following the formation of IRENA, the new International Renewable Energy Agency. Apparently responding to concerns that pro-nuclear ties of IRENA-host United Arab Emirates would taint the agency, IRENA chief Helene Pelosse has said her agency will not support nuclear projects due to waste and risks:

"IRENA will not support nuclear energy programmes because it's a long complicated process, it produces waste and is relatively risky," Helene Pelosse, director general of IRENA, told Reuters in a telephone interview from the French Alps.

IRENA, founded in January and now with 136 member countries, is aimed at supporting global development of renewable energy.

The governments of Gulf Arab countries have all expressed interest in developing nuclear power, leading to concern among analysts that a regional arms race would develop with Iran.

"Renewable energy is a better alternative and a faster, less expensive alternative, especially with countries blessed with so much sun for solar plants," Pelosse said.

Last month members of IRENA voted for the headquarters of the agency to be located in Abu Dhabi, capital of the UAE.

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