The INTUSER website (www.intuser.net) is inviting the public and energy experts to share their opinions on nuclear and alternative energies such as solar and wave power. The website aims to stimulate debate on future energy sources while gauging the public’s knowledge of current energy problems.
Renewable energy expert Robin Saunders who helped developed the website says that propaganda battles between campaign and energy groups have further confused an already poorly informed public. “There’s little public involvement in energy decision making across Europe, and public awareness of the most important issues is limited – partly because much news media coverage of energy controversies is so ill-informed that it does more harm than good.”
INTUSER wants people to think rationally about the benefits, costs, drawbacks and risks of all energy sources, says Saunders. “The sort of questions we’re raising are, is there such a thing as safe nuclear energy? Are people prepared to pay a premium for energy from renewable sources? And what technological developments are needed to achieve a safe, sustainable mix of energy sources for the generations to come?”