The town of Seaside needs to build a new power plant. The old coal burning plant produces too much pollution and is no longer safe. The mayor decides that he will do some research on alternative forms of energy like nuclear power plants and solar power plants.

Question

What types of resources should the mayor use to conduct his research? Why would these be considered reliable source of information and why? What types of resources are reliable? How can he use what he learns to make the best decision for the town

Answer 1

Who not to ask:

power companies of any sort, coal, natural gas, oil, hydro, solar, nuclear energy professionals. They all just want to sell the mayor on their technologies and the truth is not in them.

Possible sources of information:

Universities, engineering firms unaffiliated with particular power providers, other towns that have experience with the various power sources and can provide honest history of costs and benefits.