9% of global electricity is generated from Nuclear

Nuclear energy is a powerful and efficient form of low-carbon electricity generation that utilizes the heat released from nuclear reactions to produce electricity. This energy form primarily relies on the process of nuclear fission, where the nucleus of an atom — typically uranium or plutonium — is split into smaller parts, releasing a significant amount of energy. This controlled process takes place in nuclear reactors, which are designed to harness this energy and convert it into electricity. As a clean and sustainable source of power, nuclear energy is a crucial part of the global energy landscape as it addresses the growing demand for electricity while minimizing carbon emissions.

The basic process of generating electricity from nuclear energy begins with the nuclear reactor producing heat through fission. This heat is used to convert water into steam. The steam then drives a turbine connected to an electrical generator. This setup is quite similar to how electricity is produced in coal, gas, or oil power plants, where fossil fuels are burned to generate steam. However, unlike fossil fuels, nuclear reactions do not emit carbon dioxide during operation, which makes them a cleaner alternative in terms of carbon emissions.

Nuclear energy is lauded for its low carbon intensity, producing only 12 gCO2eq/kWh, which is competitive with other major low-carbon sources like wind (11 gCO2eq/kWh) and significantly lower than conventional fossil fuels such as coal (820 gCO2eq/kWh) or gas (490 gCO2eq/kWh). In contrast to fossil fuels, nuclear energy offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly option that contributes substantially to combating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions worldwide.

In terms of global electricity generation, nuclear power plays a vital role. It contributes to approximately 9% of all electricity consumed globally, highlighting its significance in the global energy mix. Several countries have embraced nuclear technology as a major component of their electricity supply. For instance, in France, a striking 68% of electricity is generated using nuclear power, showcasing the country's commitment to reducing carbon emissions. In Finland, almost 40% of electricity comes from nuclear, while South Korea relies on nuclear for about 30% of its electricity. Sweden and Slovakia also heavily invest in this low-carbon technology, deriving 29% and 62% of their electricity from nuclear generation, respectively.

Nuclear power's reliability and efficiency present noteworthy advantages. Unlike solar or wind energy, which depend on weather conditions, nuclear energy provides a stable and continuous supply of electricity, regardless of external environmental factors. This dependability ensures a consistent and robust grid system that can support industrial activity and meet daily power demands without interruption. Its ability to generate large quantities of uninterrupted, low-carbon electricity makes it an essential complement to other clean energy sources like wind and solar in transitioning away from fossil fuels.

Incorporating nuclear energy into a diversified low-carbon energy strategy allows countries to significantly reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and address environmental concerns such as climate change and air pollution. Together with wind and solar power, nuclear energy offers a viable path toward achieving a sustainable and clean energy future, supporting global efforts to build resilient and environmentally responsible electricity systems. By recognizing the strengths and potential of nuclear energy, alongside other low-carbon technologies, societies can make substantial progress toward a greener and healthier planet.