Gulf states have to go nuclear

The Gulf states are right to go nuclear, seeking new power sources with the best value for money spent, while avoiding the political trouble which nuclear power always attracts.

The populations of the six states are due to double within 20 years, and soon there will not be enough gas for the needs of the bigger population and economy. In time the hydrocarbons will run out anyway, which is why nuclear power is the answer, since solar and other sustainable energy sources will not be ready in time to manage the needs of a complete nation.

The Emirates Centre for Strategic Studies and Research is holding a conference this week on how to develop nuclear energy in the Gulf. The conference would do well to look at two key problems: how to develop a regional power grid with transparent pricing; and how to avoid the political problems of handling enriched uranium.

The UAE has made a very good suggestion on the second issue by asking the International Atomic Energy Agency(IAEA) to set up an authority to handle the fuel, though the Gulf grid is still a long way off.