I have seen nuclear power plants in several states and have often wondered how much of our energy comes from the controversial source. One of these plants remains engraved in my memory; Far away in rural Arkansas, surrounded by forested hills and a deep river, the instantly recognizable cooling tower caught my eye. This made me wonder why is nuclear power so controversial anyway? I have to admit that the scene that day was idyllic. This is not at all consistent with the way nuclear energy is traditionally presented in cinema or television. What I saw was a thriving, people-filled area within walking distance of the factory. I'm talking about boaters and skiers literally in the shadow of these cooling towers. During my research, I discovered that I had some misconceptions about nuclear power and that the industry may well come back to life here in the United States. I learned that about 20% of our electricity comes from nuclear reactors. I have come to believe that nuclear must play an even greater role in our energy mix, alongside wind and other technologies; it is safer than ever and far cleaner than coal or natural gas. Even with the challenges posed by radioactive waste and the high cost of capital, nuclear has a place in American energy production. Those who oppose nuclear power are likely to believe that it simply isn't safe. There have been no deaths or serious injuries due to radiation exposure at a nuclear power plant in the United States. Of course, some of us may remember an incident simply called "Three Mile Island (TMI)" from 1979, but it seems to me that it has been greatly overrated today. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the governing body in the United States that oversees all activities related to nuclear energy, in the middle of the article...... Schulz, M. and Smith, B. (2006). Nuclear energy: both sides. The Wilson Quarterly, 30(4), 59+. Retrieved October 9, 2011, from Opposing Viewpoints in Context. Richburg, K.B. (March 16, 2011). Hypotheses are being made about the feasibility of nuclear energy. The Washington Post, A14. Retrieved October 9, 2011, from LexisNexis Academic.Sharpe, V. (2008). “Clean” nuclear energy? Hastings Center Report, 38(4), p. 16-18. Retrieved October 9, 2011, from Opposing Viewpoints in Context. Wald, M. (December 27, 2005). Scientists are trying to solve the nuclear problem with old technology made new again. The New York Times, section F. Retrieved October 9, 2011 from LexisNexis Academic. Wald, M. (September 24, 2009). A US panel is now focusing on the reuse of nuclear fuel. The New York Times, Section A, p. 24. Retrieved October 9, 2011 from LexisNexis Academic.