IT HAS been interesting to read recently about the arguments for building nuclear power stations. That we suffer from a shortage of power in this country is undeniable. To me, nuclear is not an option, for two main reasons.

Nuclear fuel uranium is mined in areas of political instability, and therefore supplies cannot be guaranteed. Secondly, we cannot keep on finding places to bury nuclear waste, which remains toxic for perhaps thousands of years – not the best legacy to bequeath to future generations.

So the answer has to be the exploration of alternative renewable sources of energy; that much seems obvious.

For example, much is made of solar panels for heating individual properties – the government even provides grants or tax relief to encourage this. Why, therefore, has no plan been put forth for a series of solar panel “farms” throughout the country? Perhaps on disused airfields, or alongside the many miles of every single motorway, they could be in many places without impinging upon the areas of natural beauty.

No single renewable source can ever be entirely satisfactory, but several working in concert might suffice.

Lee Maloney, Millfield Avenue, York.