9% of global electricity is generated from Nuclear

Nuclear energy is a powerful and efficient source of low-carbon electricity generation. At its core, nuclear energy originates from the process of nuclear fission, where the nucleus of an atom, typically uranium, is split into two or smaller, lighter nuclei, accompanied by the release of a significant amount of energy. This process occurs within a nuclear reactor and provides a stable and continuous flow of energy, helping to meet the electricity demands of modern society. Unlike fossil fuels, nuclear energy does not produce air pollution or greenhouse gases during generation, making it a clean and environmentally friendly power source that plays a critical role in global energy strategies seeking to mitigate climate change.

The generation of electricity through nuclear means involves a series of sophisticated processes. It begins with the mining and refinement of uranium ore to produce nuclear fuel. Inside a nuclear reactor, uranium atoms are subjected to nuclear fission, releasing energy in the form of heat. This heat is used to turn water into steam, which, in turn, drives turbines connected to electricity generators. The result is a reliable and potent flow of electricity that powers industries, homes, and vital infrastructure. What sets nuclear apart from many other sources is its ability to provide a consistent output over long periods, regardless of weather conditions, making it an ideal backbone of a low-carbon, sustainable electricity supply.

One of the significant advantages of nuclear energy is its impressively low carbon intensity, at just 12 gCO2eq/kWh. This figure underscores nuclear's status as a leading clean energy source, similar to wind and solar, which have carbon intensities of 11 gCO2eq/kWh and 45 gCO2eq/kWh, respectively. When compared to fossil fuels such as coal, which has a carbon intensity of 820 gCO2eq/kWh, nuclear energy emerges as a crucial player in reducing global carbon emissions. By incorporating low-carbon technologies such as nuclear, wind, and solar into the energy mix, we significantly diminish the environmental footprint of electricity generation in pursuit of a sustainable future.

Globally, nuclear energy contributes to more than 9% of all electricity consumed, highlighting its role in securing energy supply. Several countries have successfully leveraged nuclear technology to meet substantial portions of their electricity needs. For instance, France generates about 67% of its electricity from nuclear, embodying a model for achieving a low-carbon, reliable energy mix. Slovakia harnesses nuclear for around 60% of its electricity, while Finland and South Korea utilize it for roughly 38% and 31% of their power generation, respectively. Sweden also benefits by producing close to a third of its electricity through nuclear. These examples demonstrate the potential of nuclear energy to support national energy goals while prioritizing sustainability and carbon neutrality.

The adoption of nuclear energy as part of a balanced blend of low-carbon technologies is one of the most pragmatic approaches to sustainability. Combined with other clean sources like wind and solar, nuclear power provides a diverse energy portfolio that reduces dependency on fossil fuels, enhancing energy security and offering stable electricity costs. As we aim toward an energy transition characterized by diminished carbon footprints and increased environmental stewardship, recognizing and embracing the potential of nuclear energy is paramount. Its large-scale deployment, complemented by wind and solar, positions nuclear as a cornerstone of the world's clean energy future.