Baytown Sun in Baytown, Texas

Nuclear energy to surge by 1980, forecast grows

AP reports the U.S. Bureau of Mines predicts nuclear energy use could rise tenfold by 1980 from 1965 levels, with critics noting it may still be under 5 to 12 percent of total energy. Humble Oil & Refining invests in uranium explorations in New Mexico, Wyoming, and Texas as Chase Manhattan Bank analyzes fuel reserves. The study cites ample uranium potential but warns reserves may lag without higher prices and broader exploration. By 1980 nuclear power could rival coal as a major electricity source, with many more orders expected for capacity expansion.