Nuclear Energy Back on the Global Agenda

Nuclear energy is once again back on centre stage, in the debates on global energy. Experts cite its pivotal place in a balanced, low-carbon energy future. During the Environment Analyst’s most recent global summit, panellists suggested growing confidence in the long-term future of nuclear in meeting global power needs.

Nuclear currently contributes 10% of global electricity, the second largest non-emissions source after hydropower, according to the International Energy Agency. The IEA advocated doubling capacity for nuclear energy by 2050 in pursuit of decarbonisation targets.

Major economies are reflecting that shift. Germany recently reversed its opposition to EU nuclear growth. The US witnessed an executive order calling for an acceleration of next-generation nuke tech, and the UK has invested in excess of £14 billion in the Sizewell C plant, set to operation in the 2030s.

Despite such momentum, financial problems might be persistent issue. High initial costs for nuclear necessitate long Power Purchase Agreements(PPAs), which are less flexible than fossil fuels. Officials also mentioned decarbonisation strategies, involving nuclear, as some coal-fired power stations put retirement on hold. Nuclear facilities require long-term vision and stable policy support.

The summit also stressed development of future reactors such as next-generation reactors, fusion, and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), as well as on nuclear waste disposal. Daren Timmons, representing the Savannah River National Laboratory, emphasized the need for reducing waste risk and for building partnerships in the industry to underpin the energy transition.

As much as nuclear consulting is a small component of environmental services, rising partnerships in the industry might transform that, thanks to the rising demand for green energy alternatives.

Nuclear energy, once relegated, is certainly on the global agenda.