Australia is gearing up for the federal election, and nuclear energy is on the ballot. As we weigh the pros and cons of going nuclear and consider its impact on all facets of society, we can look to other nations to assess legitimacy. Let’s explore nuclear power around the world and the effect it has had on the economy, environment, and energy infrastructure.
Nuclear energy in the United States of America (USA)
Nuclear energy accounts for approximately 18.6% of the United States’ electricity generation, making it a cornerstone of its energy mix. Economically, while initial construction costs for nuclear plants are high, their long lifespan and low operational expenses often offset these expenses. Nuclear power also ensures energy security and price stability, reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels. On the environmental front, nuclear plants produce minimal greenhouse gas emissions, aiding the US’s efforts to combat climate change.
However, the high capital costs and extended timeframes for constructing new reactors are significant drawbacks, especially in a competitive energy market dominated by cheaper natural gas and renewables such as solar power and wind power. Additionally, challenges persist in nuclear waste management, requiring long-term storage solutions that ensure safety and public trust. The risk of accidents, though minimal with modern safety protocols, remains a critical concern for public perception and policy decisions.
- Number of operational reactors: 93
- Total installed capacity: 95,835 MW
- Annual nuclear electricity generation (2023): 779,186 GWh
- Percentage of national electricity production: Approx. 18.6%
- Renewable energy share (2023): Approx. 22.7%
Three Mile Island accident (1979)
A partial meltdown occurred at Reactor 2 of the Three Mile Island plant in Pennsylvania. It was caused by a combination of equipment failures and human error. While no fatalities or long-term health impacts were officially reported, the incident led to widespread public fear and stricter safety regulations.
Santa Susana Field Laboratory (1959)
A partial meltdown of a sodium reactor occurred in California, releasing radioactive material. It received less public attention but raised early concerns about reactor safety.
Nuclear energy in France
France derives approximately 64.8% of its electricity from nuclear power, making it a leader in low-carbon energy generation. Economically, this reliance has provided France with some of the lowest electricity prices in Europe while ensuring energy independence. The environmental benefits are substantial, as nuclear power has enabled France to maintain low greenhouse gas emissions compared to other industrialised nations, aligning with its climate goals.
On the downside, France’s ageing reactor fleet poses challenges for maintenance and modernisation, with high costs and extended timelines required for upgrades. There are also concerns over nuclear waste disposal and the environmental impact of uranium mining. The government faces pressure to diversify its energy mix, investing in renewables to complement and eventually reduce reliance on nuclear power.
- Number of operational reactors: 56
- Total installed capacity: 61,370 MW
- Annual nuclear electricity generation (2023): 323,773 GWh
- Percentage of national electricity production: Approx. 64.8%
- Renewable energy share (2023): Approx. 26.5%
Saint-Laurent nuclear accidents (1969 and 1980)
The Saint-Laurent nuclear power plant experienced two significant incidents. In 1969, a fuel element partially melted, and in 1980 a reactor suffered another partial core meltdown. These incidents did not result in public harm but underscored safety concerns.
Nuclear power in China
China is aggressively expanding its nuclear energy capacity to address its growing energy demand and transition away from coal. Economically, nuclear power supports China’s goals of energy diversification and energy security, reducing reliance on imported fuels. Environmentally, nuclear energy contributes to reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, helping China achieve its ambitious climate targets.
However, the rapid expansion raises questions about safety and the ability to maintain high standards across all new reactors. Waste disposal and the potential risks of nuclear accidents are ongoing concerns. Despite these challenges, China’s investment in advanced reactor technologies signals its commitment to building a safer, more efficient nuclear infrastructure.
- Number of operational reactors: 55
- Total installed capacity: 53,152 MW
- Annual nuclear electricity generation (2023): 406,484 GWh
- Percentage of national electricity production: Approx. 4.9%
- Renewable energy share (2023): Approx. 30.6%
Nuclear energy in Germany
Germany’s decision to phase out nuclear energy following the 2011 Fukushima disaster has had profound impacts on its economy and energy mix. Economically, the transition to renewables has required significant investment in wind, solar, and energy storage infrastructure. This shift aligns with Germany’s environmental goals of reducing nuclear risks and cutting carbon emissions, although the interim reliance on coal and natural gas has complicated these efforts.
A notable downside is the increased electricity costs for consumers during the transition period. The reliance on fossil fuels in the short term has also hindered Germany’s progress toward its climate goals. Nonetheless, Germany’s innovative renewable energy policies and technological advancements demonstrate a commitment to creating a sustainable, nuclear-free energy future.
- Number of operational reactors: 3
- Total installed capacity: 4,055 MW
- Annual nuclear electricity generation (2023): 32,731 GWh
- Percentage of national electricity production: Approx. 6.0%
- Renewable energy share (2023): Approx. 53.5%
Gundremmingen A reactor accident (1977)
A severe fuel element meltdown occurred, leading to the reactor’s permanent shutdown. No significant radiation release occurred, but the incident reinforced public scepticism about nuclear energy.
Nuclear energy in Japan
Japan’s nuclear energy policy underwent a dramatic shift after the Fukushima Daiichi disaster, resulting in the shutdown of all reactors by 2013. Economically, this move increased the nation’s dependence on fossil fuel imports, leading to higher electricity costs and trade deficits. Environmentally, the reduced reliance on nuclear power has caused a temporary rise in greenhouse gas emissions.
On the positive side, Japan has since focused on enhancing reactor safety and exploring renewable energy sources to reduce dependence on imported fuels. The ongoing debate about restarting reactors reflects a cautious approach to balancing energy security, economic viability, and environmental sustainability, although public opposition remains a significant barrier.
- Number of operational reactors: 33
- Total installed capacity: 31,679 MW
- Annual nuclear electricity generation (2023): 77,539 GWh
- Percentage of national electricity production: Approx. 5.6%
- Renewable energy share (2023): Approx. 22%
Tokaimura criticality accident (1999)
Mismanagement during uranium processing caused a criticality accident, killing two workers and exposing others to radiation.
Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster (2011)
Triggered by a massive earthquake and tsunami, three reactors experienced meltdowns, releasing significant radiation. This disaster led to the shutdown of all reactors in Japan and a global re-evaluation of nuclear safety.
Nuclear power in the United Kingdom (UK)
The UK is pursuing nuclear energy expansion as part of its strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Economically, new projects like Hinkley Point C represent significant investments, promising long-term energy security and stable electricity prices. Environmentally, nuclear energy is a vital component of the UK’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to a low-carbon economy.
However, the high upfront costs and long development timelines for new reactors pose challenges. Additionally, public concerns about waste management and safety continue to affect support for nuclear projects.
- Number of operational reactors: 9
- Total installed capacity: 5,883 MW
- Annual nuclear electricity generation (2023): 37,278 GWh
- Percentage of national electricity production: Approx. 12.5%
- Renewable energy share (2023): Approx. 30%
Windscale fire (1957)
A reactor fire at the Windscale (now Sellafield) nuclear plant in Cumbria resulted in the release of radioactive material into the environment. It remains the worst nuclear accident in UK history.
Nuclear power in Sweden
Sweden is evaluating the role of nuclear energy in its future energy strategy, balancing its need for low-carbon electricity with economic and environmental considerations. Nuclear power has historically provided a reliable and low-emission energy source, supporting Sweden’s climate goals.
However, recent analyses suggest that expanding wind energy may be a more cost-effective approach to meeting future electricity demands. The challenges of high investment costs, long lead times, and waste management complicate the case for new reactors. However, the change of government in 2022 ushered in a review of policies and a commitment to 100% fossil fuel-free energy by 2045. This has paved the way for revisiting nuclear energy along with renewables.
- Number of operational reactors: 6
- Total installed capacity: 6,944 MW
- Annual nuclear electricity generation (2023): 46,648 GWh
- Percentage of national electricity production: Approx. 28.6%
- Renewable energy share (2023): Approx. 69.4%
Forsmark incident (2006)
A power failure at Forsmark Nuclear Power Plant revealed flaws in the safety systems. Although no radiation was released, it prompted reviews of reactor safety protocols.
Nuclear energy in Italy
Italy is planning to reintroduce nuclear power into its energy mix by 2027, after public opposition to nuclear energy intensified after the Chernobyl disaster (1986), leading to a referendum in 1987 that ended nuclear energy production in the country. Italy is aiming to enhance energy security and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Economically, this move could provide significant cost savings in achieving decarbonisation goals. Environmentally, nuclear energy is expected to play a key role in reducing emissions, particularly in hard-to-abate sectors. Renewable energy makes up approximately 40% of the country’s energy sector, with no indication of how nuclear energy will enter the mix.
On the downside, Italy faces challenges in overcoming public opposition to nuclear power and ensuring robust regulatory frameworks. The successful integration of advanced nuclear technologies, such as small and modular reactors, will be crucial for addressing these concerns and building public trust.
Conclusion
Nuclear energy, while a reliable source of low-emission electricity, faces increasing scrutiny due to its relatively low yield compared to renewables like solar and wind. Globally, nuclear power accounts for around 10% of electricity generation, a figure dwarfed by the rapidly growing share of renewables. The high upfront costs of building nuclear plants, coupled with long construction timelines, make it economically less competitive against renewables, which benefit from declining technology costs and faster deployment. Additionally, the expenses tied to decommissioning reactors, managing nuclear waste, and ensuring safety measures add to the financial burden. In contrast, renewables provide a more scalable and cost-effective solution, offering decentralised energy production with minimal operational costs and fewer long-term liabilities. While nuclear energy provides consistent baseload power, its economic and yield disadvantages challenge its role in the transition to a sustainable energy future.
Read part 1 of our 5-part series and stay tuned for part 3.
