# NRG Solar Energy: A Shift from Nuclear Power - Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2016/02/nrg-solar-energy-a-shift-from-nuclear-power/ - Published: 2016-02-17T03:20:52-05:00 - Author: greenlivingguy ## NRG Energy Shifts Strategy: Investing Heavily in Solar After Nuclear Setbacks NRG Energy is making a decisive move toward solar power. Previously, the company planned to bet big on new nuclear facilities. However, rising safety concerns and economic uncertainties have forced a major strategic shift. Instead of doubling down on costly, controversial nuclear power, NRG will now invest more heavily in solar energy. ### Nuclear Safety Concerns Change the Landscape Following the Fukushima disaster, global attitudes toward nuclear safety changed dramatically. Moreover, public opposition in the U.S. grew stronger, making it much harder to secure regulatory approvals. As a result, NRG Energy CEO David Crane acknowledged these challenges openly. He explained the company could no longer justify the risk or expense of new nuclear projects in the current climate. Instead, he argued that solar offers a safer, faster, and more reliable path to cleaner energy. ![Large scale solar farm with nrg energy workers inspecting rows of panels under a clear blue sky](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/ CE73F8EA-9504-4EF0-A9AA-FA8062176F9A-400x400.png?resize=400%2C400&ssl=1 "CE73F8EA- 9504-4EF0-A9AA-FA8062176F9A - The Green Living Guy") NRG Energy expands clean power generation with its solar initiative delivering sustainable energy solutions ### Reimagining NRG’s Energy Strategy This pivot is not simply about abandoning nuclear. Rather, it’s about reimagining NRG’s entire approach to energy generation. Meanwhile, solar power has become far more cost-competitive over the past decade. Furthermore, customers increasingly demand cleaner, safer sources of electricity. Therefore, the company sees this shift as both a moral and economic imperative. ### Expanding Utility-Scale Solar Projects NRG plans to expand its large-scale solar installations across the United States. For example, they are developing utility-scale solar farms capable of producing hundreds of [megawatts of clean electricity](https://greenlivingguy.com/2015/01/yingli-green-energy-builds-20-mw-solar-power-plant-in-china/). Moreover, these projects not only reduce carbon emissions but also support local economies by creating green jobs. Additionally, the company aims to partner with municipalities and businesses eager to transition to renewable energy. ### Investing in Distributed Solar and Storage In addition to large installations, NRG is investing in distributed solar solutions. For instance, rooftop solar for homes and businesses represents a massive growth opportunity. Moreover, by offering financing and installation services, the company hopes to make solar power more accessible and affordable for everyday customers. Meanwhile, they plan to integrate battery storage solutions to ensure reliable power even when the sun isn’t shining. ### A Long-Term Commitment to Renewable Energy Crane emphasized that this shift is not temporary or reactionary. Instead, NRG sees renewable energy as its long-term future. Additionally, he explained that fossil fuels and nuclear power face increasing public and regulatory scrutiny. In contrast, solar and other renewables are only getting cheaper and more popular. Therefore, the company believes that betting on solar is a smart way to deliver value to both shareholders and society. 🌎 Further Reading * [U.S. Department of Energy: Solar Energy Technologies Office](https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/solar-energy-technologies-office) * NRG Energy’s Clean Energy Initiatives * [World Nuclear Association: Nuclear Power Post-](https://world-nuclear.org/information-library/safety-and-security/safety-of-plants/fukushima-accident.aspx) ![author avatar](https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/df91669667126e1290c21ee0342c386e2da19d588d4d9ca6560bd82ed59a9641? s=300&d=monsterid&r=g) greenlivingguy The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author, Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant and Seth Leitman (2nd and 3rd editions) # Build Your Own Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle by Seth Leitman # Build Your Own Electric Motorcycle by Carl Vogel # Green Lighting by Seth Leitman, Brian Clark Howard and Bill Brinsky # Solar Power For Your Home by David Findley # Renewable Energies For Your Home by Russel Gehrke # Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Audits by David Findley # Build Your Own Small Wind Power System by Brian Clark Howard and Kevin Shea # and more green living books to follow. [See Full Bio](https://greenlivingguy.com/author/greenlivingguy/) [ ](https://greenlivingguy.com/author/greenlivingguy/)