Geoffrey Black, an economics professor, presented two studies at the annual Association for University Business and Economic Research Conference, hosted by Boise State’s School of Public Service. On October 20, he delivered “The Economics of Wind Energy Development in the West” during a morning session and “Nuclear Microreactors: Technology and Market Assessment” in the afternoon.
The first presentation, “The Economics of Wind Energy Development in the West” emphasized the importance of wind energy in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and addressing climate concerns. Proposed wind farms in eastern Idaho offer significant economic benefits, including increased employment, economic activity and tax revenues, partially in rural areas. These benefits arise from both constriction and long-term operations. However, opposition due to concerns about wildlife and viewsheds has led to Bureau of Land Management modifications and an increasing trend of project denials nationwide, affecting wind and solar energy development.
The second presentation, “Nuclear Microreactors: Technology and Market Assessment,” highlighted the potential of advanced nuclear technologies, such as microreactors and small modular reactors, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions alongside renewable energy sources. Research at Idaho National Laboratory is evaluating various microreactor designs for applications ranging from remote and off-grid locations to disaster relief and rapidly growing urban areas. These reactors not only aid in greenhouse gas reductions but also provide substantial economic benefits to hot regions.