This is a topic that affects each one of us: our electric supply. Despite the investment of billions of dollars on wind and solar energy, blackouts are becoming more frequent. Massachusetts is committed to wind, while the Trump administration opposes it. Last year the U.S. announced plans to triple nuclear energy production, yet many people abhor this approach. What is the right solution?

Much of what we read and see in the news about wind and solar energy overlooks or minimizes the very real disadvantages of those technologies, while most of us were raised on a diet of catastrophic news about nuclear energy that overstates the risks.  We will aim to achieve a more balanced view, and to bring out information most people are not aware of.  

To avoid misinformation that is so abundant in this area, we will use reliable, verifiable sources such as the grid operators themselves and the Department of Energy. Classes will include a mix of slides, short videos, and discussion and debate. We may decide to do online homework as timely or controversial topics arise.  Preparation time should be 30-45 minutes each week.

Note: this is a topic on which some people have strong feelings. Please help us focus on simply understanding the facts!