Now we have rethought these factors, and have changed our mind. And perhaps wish to deny that we had anything to do with the decision. There was a long period of development of atomic energy, both the science and the technology, during which all had the opportunity to weigh in on one side or the other. I feel a little miffed that those who once scorned renewable energy sources are now denying any responsibility for the acceptance of nuclear energy, and even objecting to proposals for the safe permanent disposal of nuclear waste. As to the future, in spite of our first move toward nuclear power, American business and the free market led to continued development of alternative energy sources.
American industry is still the leader in the manufacture of solar photoelectric cells.
These are units made of doped silicon crystals which convert sunlight directly into electricity. With the threat of global warming, Japan and many countries in Europe are moving toward use of this technology, so the companies involved in the manufacture of these materials can hardly keep up with orders. With increasing production of these devices, the price is coming down. But our consumers still have little interest in this development, or have managed to remain completely ignorant of its existence. Our industry is maintaining its position at the forefront of this technology, but our leadership fails to promote it, and our citizens can't be bothered.