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Update on NIF, ignition, and beyond ignition, LIFE:
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger toured the National Ignition Facility Monday 11/10/08 and held a press conference to discuss the nearly completed laser and applications, particularly the Laser Inertial Confinement Fusion-Fission Energy project, or LIFE.
The governor said LIFE could help the state’s future energy needs while simultaneously decreasing dependence on fossil fuels. Schwarzenegger said fusion energy would not only assist the state in meeting future energy demands, but also would help reduce greenhouse gas emissions that negatively impact climate.
“This laser technology has the potential to revolutionize our energy future,” Schwarzenegger said. “If successful, this new endeavor could generate thousands of megawatts of carbon-free nuclear power but without the drawbacks of conventional nuclear plants. This type of innovation is why we are a world leader in science, technology and clean energy, and I could not be prouder that this work is happening right here in California.”
Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger is briefed while standing in front of NIF’s target chamber. From left, LLNL Director George Miller; WCI PAD Bruce Goodwin; Susan Kennedy, governor’s chief of staff; the governor; Edward Moses, principal associate director of the National Ignition Facility; George Shultz, former U.S. Secretary of State. Photo by Jacqueline McBride.
LIFE would lead to sustainable, carbon-free energy that is safe and drastically shrink’s the nation’s and world’s inventories of nuclear waste.
To see Schwarzenegger’s press conference, click here.
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