On April 22, Dr. Chris J Kobus of Oakland Univ, spoke on Energy's Fundamental Role in Civilization
David Morrow | Published on 4/22/2025
Dr. Kobus emphasized the importance of the immutable laws of energy, such as: Energy cannot be created or destroyed; it can only change from one form to another. Our ancestors started using wood or waterpower as energy sources and then moved on to coal and petroleum. Our reserves of fossil fuels will last for many decades. Although wind and solar are sometimes referred to as "green energy," or "renewable energy." the emissions from mining, refining and producing the components of solar cells and wind turbines mean they are not green or renewable.
Petroleum is used mostly for transportation and will continue to power most vehicles despite attempts to electrify cars and trucks. Dr. Kobus seemed convinced that we will not reduce our emissions to prevent climate change. He feels that China, India and other developing countries are not reducing their emissions, and the US should not risk slowing our economy by strict emission controls when it won't stop the increase fueled by others. He referred to CO2 as "plant food."
Dr. Kobus does support nuclear energy as the best alternative to fossil fuels. Despite the fears of the public, nuclear energy can be the safest means to produce the power that our economy requires. New technology, such as small modular reactors, could reduce costs of building new plants or restarting closed plants if regulatory roadblocks can be avoided.
For pictures from the meeting, click April 22 2025 Members Meeting