Sector movers: Nuclear fears boost alternative energy stocks

The alternative energy sector is over 7% higher Tuesday, as fears over a nuclear disaster in Japan have buoyed sentiment in renewable energy stocks.Wind turbine gearbox manufacturer Hansen Transmissions and fuel cell developer Proton Power Systems are providing a lift.The life insurance sector is suffering the effects of the Japanese crisis with blue chips insurers Old Mutual, Prudential and Standard Life all making losses of around 3%.Top performing sectors so far todayAlternative Energy 3,161.67 +7.32%Electricity 7,359.95 +0.49%Industrial Transportation 2,539.62 +0.31%Leisure Goods null 0.00%General Retailers 1,549.27 -0.21%Bottom performing sectors so far todayFixed Line Telecommunications 2,296.62 -2.68%Life Insurance 4,307.42 -2.60%Construction & Materials 4,076.47 -2.50%Beverages 8,754.78 -2.43%Electronic & Electrical Equipment 2,873.54 -2.43%