The challenges facing the Clinton Nuclear Power Station to remain financially viable are an issue that is a national problem.

That is the message from State Sen. Chapin Rose who says the root of the issue is the national government's attempts to try to shut down the coal industry, which has backfired and impacted nuclear energy the most.

Sen. Rose says the environmentalists community's attempt to eliminate the carbon producers has put nuclear power under attack. He explains the market place has been distorted as a result.

According to Sen. Rose there are two options at this point. The first brings Exelon and nuclear power up to the standards of renewable energy but Sen. Rose points out that will raise residents rates.

Finally, Sen. Rose says the worst case scenario is to lose the power plant and electricity rates will skyrocket. He says by either scenario, electricity rates are going to rise.

Sen. Rose says there is legislation in the Illinois General Assembly that would bring nuclear power to renewable standards which would give Clinton's power station the opportunity to stay open however, Sen. Rose again points out, the national market dynamics may still keep it from being financially viable.