Nuclear waste, long-term problem

The article ``Take Nuclear Waste Off States' Hands,'' Oct. 27, plays down the fact that there simply are no safe long-term storage or disposal methods for spent nuclear fuel. Good intentions and billions of dollars do not change the laws of physics and geology. The cost of constructing, fueling, operating, decommissioning, and dismanteling nuclear plants may be significantly higher than the value of the energy obtained over the operating life of the plant in many cases.

This is especially true if the cost of long-term storage or disposal is included. Investors in nuclear power expect to make a profit over the operating life of the plant, but this can be done only if long-term cleanup and nuclear waste storage is left to the taxpayers. Larry W. Linnell, Towanda, Pa.

Your letters are welcome. For publication they must be signed and include your address and telephone number. Only a selection can be published, and none acknowledged. Letters should be addressed to ``Readers Write,'' and can be sent by Internet E-mail (200 word maximum) to OPED@RACHEL.CSPS.COM, by fax to 617-450-2317, or by mail to One Norway St., Boston, MA 02115