This won't be the case with modern reactor designs. Previous designs were based on an approach that is fundamentally unstable and thus requires a huge investme

This won't be the case with modern reactor designs. Previous designs were based on an approach that is fundamentally unstable and thus requires a huge investment in safety critical systems to keep things in line. Newer designs are fundamentally stable and fail in an inherently safe manner. Much, much less surrounding infrastructure and a greatly reduced need for system level fixes to problems since the catastrophic issues have been designed out. It will take some time to turn the ship, but it is our best chance for producing 24 hour scalable power that is also carbon safe. Just search "modern nuclear reactor design" and start honestly reading the literature with an open mind. A couple of random articles (plenty more available): https://www.technologyreview.com/s/512321/safer-nuclear-power-at-half-the-price/ https://www.technologyreview.com/s/512321/safer-nuclear-powe... http://science.time.com/2013/08/05/amidst-economic-and-safety-concerns-nuclear-advocates-pin-their-hopes-on-new-designs/ http://science.time.com/2013/08/05/amidst-economic-and-safet... Plenty of great information out there for anyone interested in letting go of their preconceived ideas and exploring the amazing work that is happening now.