The so-called “thermal pollution” is thousands of times smaller in size and effect than the river’s own spontaneous changes. Therefore the non-scientific basis of the TP complaint is exposed. The TP accusation assumes that mankind can ethically impart NO TEMPERATURE CHANGE AT ALL to any river water, or else a valid accusation can be mounted.

The fantastical, pollyana scenario of absolutely zero temperature change begs the issue of what to do with the dozens of other heat producers in place on the Hudson. Do we we close the Bowline, Danskammer, and Roseton electric plants too? Do we close the Wheelabrator garbage incinerator also? If so, how do we power New York State, and where does the unburned solid waste go? Do we ship it by barge to Burundi, to be dumped there?

In truth the TP complaint is 100% political. It is tightly focused on only Indian Point, because Indian Point is an already-famous, well-branded target. It is being used to pre-position Andrew Cuomo for future political benefit. ( the NY DEC “official” who wrote the TP accusation is an old Cuomo protege, placed in the DEC, specifically to write the accusation).