The Return of Nuclear Energy as a Sustainable Energy Source

May 15 2025 By Evelyne Hoffman Ecology Technology 0 Comments

The return of nuclear energy as a sustainable energy source has gained substantial momentum in recent years. This shift is largely driven by the dual imperatives of decarbonizing global energy systems and bolstering energy security in the face of volatile fossil fuel markets and climate threats.

Once associated primarily with catastrophic failures, including Chernobyl (1986) and Fukushima (2011), nuclear energy is now being reexamined as a viable low-carbon technology capable of supporting net-zero emissions targets by 2050.

In this article we describe the shift which is clearly driven by innovative technologies. It’s also a clear sign that doomsday thinking does not work, on the contrary.

Historical Legacy and Modern Applications

The commercial use of nuclear energy began in the 1950s and flourished through the 1970s. Yet the disasters of Chernobyl and Fukushima created deep public mistrust, prompting several countries to scale back or halt nuclear expansion. Today, countries like the U.S., France, China, and India are integrating nuclear into their net-zero pathways. By 2023, global nuclear power output reached 2602 TWh, up from 2545 TWh in 2022, signaling renewed investment.

Beyond electricity, nuclear technologies are applied in medical isotopes, desalination, and space exploration. However, the dual-use nature of nuclear technology, which can serve both civilian and military purposes, complicates governance. The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), established in 1970, is the primary framework addressing these concerns by promoting peaceful nuclear use while preventing proliferation. Cold War-era arms treaties like START II (1993) focused on reducing nuclear arsenals and are less relevant to civilian nuclear governance.

Global Nuclear Energy Snapshot (2025)

Metric	Value	Details
Global Electricity Share	~10%	Nuclear’s contribution to global electricity production.
Operating Reactors (Worldwide)	~440	Spread across 31 countries, with ~50 under construction.
Total Installed Capacity	~390 GW	Supports low-carbon energy for millions of households.
Annual CO₂ Emissions Avoided	~1.5 billion tons	Equivalent to removing ~300 million cars from the road annually.

Source: World Nuclear Association, IAEA (2023–2025) – iaea.org or world-nuclear.org.

Technological Innovation

Advanced Reactors and SMRs

Generation IV reactors and SMRs represent the forefront of nuclear innovation. Designs such as Westinghouse’s eVinci and TerraPower’s Natrium reactor leverage molten salt and gas cooling systems, offering safer, smaller, and more flexible options. These systems promise greater siting flexibility, faster construction, and more efficient heat output.

However, while SMRs are designed for shorter build times (3–5 years vs. 7–10 for large reactors), real-world deployments (e.g., NuScale’s project in Idaho) have faced delays due to regulatory and financing hurdles. The Linglong One SMR in China, operational in 2024, is an exception but benefited from state-backed streamlined processes.

AI Integration and Monitoring

Digital twins and AI-powered reactor management are revolutionizing safety and efficiency. Physics-informed machine learning models enable predictive maintenance, autonomous control, and real-time hazard detection. Neutron flux monitoring systems have also evolved, improving fidelity and safety in new-generation cores.

Broader Industrial Advancements

Enhanced material sciences allow for higher-temperature operations. Modular construction and additive manufacturing (e.g., 3D-printed reactor components) are reducing capital costs and build times.

Environmental and Climatic Benefits

On a life-cycle basis, nuclear energy produces roughly 4–12 gCO₂e/kWh – on par with wind and far lower than fossil fuels. It also avoids key pollutants such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, mitigating acid rain and respiratory illness. Eutrophication and acidification impacts are significantly less severe than those from coal and gas.

A comparative summary is provided below:

Metric	Nuclear	Onshore Wind	Solar PV (Utility-scale)
Lifecycle CO₂ Emissions (gCO₂e/kWh)	4–12	4–14	26–48
LCOE (Global Range, 2023–25, $/MWh)	69–82	24–75	24–96
LCOE (Australia GenCost, 2023–24, $/MWh)	141–233 (Large), 230–382 (SMR)	45–78	22–53
Capital Cost (Overnight, $/kW)	7,400–8,000	1,300–1,700	1,300

Despite its low emissions, radioactive waste disposal remains unresolved. Long-term containment solutions are still being researched, and no global consensus has emerged.

Economic Impact and Energy Market Role

The nuclear sector is a major economic contributor. In the EU, over 1.1 million jobs are linked to nuclear energy. Each gigawatt of capacity generates €9.3 billion annually across related industries, with high indirect GDP multipliers. Nuclear also provides base-load reliability, which intermittent renewables cannot guarantee without large-scale storage.

Though initial capital costs are high, nuclear becomes cost-competitive when accounting for carbon pricing. Studies show nuclear can deliver base-load energy at lower long-term costs than fossil fuels if carbon costs are internalized.

Let’s go a bit deeper into the economic impact and the energy market role.

Job Creation and Economic Activity

In the European Union, the nuclear sector supports over 1.1 million jobs, both direct and indirect. Direct jobs include roles in reactor operation, maintenance, and fuel cycle activities (e.g., uranium mining, enrichment, and waste management). Indirect jobs span supply chains, construction, engineering, and research.

Each gigawatt (GW) of nuclear capacity generates approximately €9.3 billion annually in economic output. This figure accounts for activity across related industries, such as manufacturing of reactor components, infrastructure development, and services. The high economic multiplier effect stems from nuclear’s long supply chain and the need for specialized, high-skill labor.

The indirect GDP multipliers are notable because nuclear projects stimulate local and regional economies. For instance, constructing a new reactor involves years of investment, creating demand for materials like steel and concrete, as well as services like transportation and logistics. Once operational, plants sustain long-term economic activity through stable employment and energy exports.

Economic Impact of Nuclear Energy in the EU

Metric	Value	Description
Total Jobs Supported	1.1 million	Direct and indirect jobs in reactor operations, construction, and supply chains.
Economic Output per GW of Capacity	€9.3 billion/year	Annual contribution across industries (manufacturing, services, etc.).
Indirect GDP Multiplier	High (2–3x)	Economic activity stimulated per euro invested in nuclear projects.
Project Lifespan	60–80 years	Typical operational life of modern nuclear plants, including extensions.

Source: Derived from EU nuclear industry reports and World Nuclear Association (2023–2025 data) – world-nuclear.org.

Long-Term Economic Benefits

Nuclear projects have lifespans of 60–80 years (with extensions), providing decades of economic returns compared to shorter-lived assets like gas plants or wind farms.

The sector fosters innovation in related fields, such as advanced materials, robotics for reactor maintenance, and medical isotopes produced in reactors, which have applications in cancer treatment and diagnostics.

Base-Load Reliability

Nuclear power plants provide base-load electricity, meaning they operate continuously at high capacity (often 90%+ availability) to meet constant energy demand. This contrasts with intermittent renewables like wind and solar, which depend on weather and time of day.

Renewables require large-scale energy storage (e.g., batteries, pumped hydro) or backup systems (e.g., gas plants) to ensure grid stability when production drops. These solutions are costly and, in the case of fossil fuel backups, undermine decarbonization goals. Nuclear’s consistent output reduces reliance on such systems.

In energy markets, nuclear’s reliability helps stabilize electricity prices, as it shields grids from the volatility caused by fluctuating renewable output or fossil fuel price spikes.

Nuclear vs. Other Energy Sources – Cost and Reliability

Metric	Nuclear	Onshore Wind	Solar PV (Utility-scale)
Lifecycle CO₂ Emissions (gCO₂e/kWh)	4–12	4–14	26–48
LCOE (Global Range, 2024, $/MWh)	75–90	25–60	30–70
Capital Cost (Overnight, $/kW)	7,400–8,000	1,300–1,700	1,300

Cost Competitiveness

High Initial Capital Costs: Building a nuclear power plant involves significant upfront investment (often €5–10 billion per reactor) due to complex engineering, safety requirements, and lengthy permitting processes. For example, projects like Hinkley Point C in the UK have faced cost overruns and delays.

Long-Term Cost Advantage: Nuclear becomes competitive when carbon pricing is factored in. Fossil fuels, particularly coal and gas, incur increasing costs under carbon taxes or emissions trading schemes (e.g., the EU’s Emissions Trading System). Nuclear, with near-zero operational emissions, avoids these penalties.

Studies, such as those by the OECD and IEA, indicate that nuclear’s levelized cost of electricity (LCOE)—which accounts for construction, operation, fuel, and decommissioning—can be lower than fossil fuels over a plant’s lifetime, especially when carbon costs exceed $30–50 per ton. For instance, nuclear LCOE ranges from $40–80/MWh in optimal conditions, compared to $50–100/MWh for gas with carbon pricing.

Compared to renewables, nuclear’s higher upfront costs are offset by its longevity and reliability, avoiding the need for redundant infrastructure like storage or backup plants.

Broader Context

Energy Security: Nuclear reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels, a critical factor for countries vulnerable to geopolitical disruptions (e.g., Europe’s reliance on Russian gas before 2022). Domestic uranium supplies or diversified fuel imports enhance stability.

Decarbonization: Nuclear is a cornerstone of net-zero strategies. The IPCC and IEA emphasize its role in achieving 2050 climate targets, as it provides low-carbon electricity at scale, complementing renewables.

Challenges: High capital costs, public perception, and waste management remain hurdles. However, innovations like small modular reactors (SMRs) promise lower costs and faster deployment, potentially transforming the sector’s economics.

Nuclear Energy’s Role in EU Electricity and Emissions

Metric	Value	Impact
Share of EU Electricity	~25%	Nuclear provides a quarter of the EU’s electricity (2023 data).
Annual CO₂ Emissions Avoided	700 million tons	Compared to equivalent fossil fuel generation.
Number of Operating Reactors	~100	Across 13 EU countries, with France leading (~56 reactors).
Installed Capacity	~100 GW	Supports grid stability and energy security.

Source: Eurostat, World Nuclear Association (2023–2025) – eurostat.ec.europa.eu and world-nuclear.org.

Supporting Data

• The World Nuclear Association notes that nuclear provides ~10% of global electricity with nearly zero emissions during operation.
• In the EU, nuclear accounts for ~25% of electricity, preventing the release of 700 million tons of CO₂ annually compared to fossil fuel alternatives.
• Countries like France, with ~70% nuclear in their energy mix, benefit from low per-capita emissions and stable electricity prices.

Economic Risks and Financial Hurdles

Despite its potential, nuclear energy faces considerable economic risks that can hinder its broader deployment. High capital costs, long construction timelines, and regulatory uncertainties contribute to investor hesitation and financial volatility in nuclear projects.

Financing Challenges

The upfront investment required to build a nuclear power plant remains among the highest in the energy sector. Projects such as Plant Vogtle in the U.S. have experienced years of delays and budget overruns. These risks often discourage private investment. In response, new financial models – such as public-private partnerships, loan guarantees, and risk-sharing frameworks – are being piloted to mitigate these burdens and incentivize development.

The Vogtle project in the U.S. is an example of delays and overruns (final cost ~$35 billion for 2.2 GW), but recent SMR projects (e.g., NuScale) aim to reduce costs through standardization. The competitiveness gap with renewables is narrowing in regions with carbon pricing or high renewable backup costs (e.g., storage).

Competitiveness with Renewables

Nuclear energy’s levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) remains significantly higher than that of solar and wind. As of recent estimates, nuclear LCOE ranges from $112 to $189 per megawatt-hour (MWh), compared to $29–$56 for onshore wind and solar. Furthermore, while costs for renewables have declined by up to 88% over the past decade, nuclear costs have increased by roughly 23%, intensifying the need for technological and project management reforms.

Public Perception and Policy Alignment

Public support for nuclear projects is often conditional on perceptions of cost, reliability, and environmental impact. Affordable electricity and emissions reduction are viewed as public priorities. Policymakers are adapting to these attitudes by incorporating nuclear into long-term clean energy plans, passing legislation to reverse prior bans or facilitate licensing reform.

Strategic Partnerships and Future Prospects

The long-term economic viability of nuclear energy hinges on strategic partnerships between government agencies, utilities, and developers. These collaborations are key to reducing capital risk, accelerating approval timelines, and leveraging existing infrastructure. As part of a diversified clean energy strategy, nuclear’s integration with renewable sources may offer both cost savings and reliability benefits as nations move toward decarbonization.

Public Sentiment and Political Divides

In the U.S., public support for nuclear energy now outweighs opposition, with a 1.5:1 ratio in favor. However, waste management, perceived risks, and costs still fuel skepticism. The Energy Policy Act of 2005 aimed to reduce construction barriers but failed to trigger the expected ‘nuclear renaissance.’

Subsequent policies (e.g., Inflation Reduction Act 2022) have spurred investment. African countries like Ghana and Kenya are exploring nuclear, but public awareness campaigns are limited, and progress is slower than implied.

Surveys show Americans are divided on the federal role: 41% support government promotion of nuclear energy, 22% oppose it, and 36% prefer neutrality. Trust remains an obstacle, and transparent regulation is essential for sustained public backing.

In the European Union, public opinion is mixed and highly regionalized. In countries like France, where nuclear energy already constitutes over 70% of electricity generation, public support remains relatively strong. Conversely, in Germany and Austria, skepticism is high due to historical anti-nuclear movements and the legacy of past accidents. Germany’s decision to complete its nuclear phase-out in 2023 aligned with public preferences, though it has raised concerns about increased reliance on coal and imported electricity. The EU’s taxonomy of sustainable investments sparked debate in 2022 by labeling nuclear as ‘green’ under certain conditions, revealing ongoing divisions among member states.

In Asia, China and India view nuclear energy favorably as a means to meet growing energy demand while reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. In China, the state tightly controls public discourse, and nuclear policy enjoys institutional support. India faces more scrutiny from civil society groups but continues to invest heavily in nuclear expansion. In South Korea and Japan, the Fukushima disaster deeply impacted public sentiment, with Japan facing ongoing protests and safety debates, while South Korea’s recent administration reversed previous plans to phase out nuclear power, citing economic and environmental imperatives.

In Africa, public perception is largely shaped by energy access issues rather than legacy concerns. Countries like Egypt and South Africa are exploring nuclear development to reduce dependence on imported fuels and address energy poverty. While there is general openness to nuclear energy among policymakers, public understanding remains limited, and engagement initiatives are nascent. Ghana and Kenya have launched public awareness campaigns alongside feasibility studies to build social license for future nuclear projects.

Overall, public opinion on nuclear energy remains dynamic and context-dependent. Cultural memory, historical experience, economic priorities, and political narratives all influence acceptance. Building public trust through transparency, inclusive dialogue, and strong regulatory frameworks remains critical to nuclear energy’s global trajectory.

Global Case Studies

As of 2025, several nations have reversed or reconfigured their nuclear energy policies.

These moves reflect a growing realization that intermittent renewables alone may not suffice to ensure a stable, decarbonized grid. The International Energy Agency has documented a global uptick in nuclear development, underpinned by next-generation reactor technology and enhanced safety standards.

Here are recent policy changes related to nuclear energy in key countries (2024–2025):

1. Belgium

Belgium initially planned to phase out nuclear energy by 2025, as mandated by a 2003 law prohibiting new nuclear reactors and setting a timeline for decommissioning existing ones. However, due to energy security concerns, rising electricity prices, and a new government coalition formed in 2024 that excludes green parties, Belgium has reversed this policy. The government repealed the 2003 phase-out law in February 2025, opting to extend the operational life of two reactors (Doel 4 and Tihange 3) by 10 years and invest in new nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs). This shift aims to ensure grid stability, reduce carbon emissions, and address the energy crisis exacerbated by reliance on gas imports.

2. Germany

Germany completed the shutdown of its last three operational nuclear power plants (Isar 2, Emsland, and Neckarwestheim 2) on April 15, 2023, finalizing a phase-out policy initiated in 2011 post-Fukushima. This decision has remained in effect through 2024–2025, with no plans to reverse it despite energy challenges. While Germany has significantly expanded renewable energy capacity (e.g., wind and solar), it has increased reliance on coal and lignite to meet electricity demand, particularly during periods of low renewable output. This has led to higher carbon emissions compared to a scenario with continued nuclear use, highlighting trade-offs in Germany’s energy transition.

3. United Kingdom

The UK remains committed to nuclear energy as a cornerstone of its net-zero strategy by 2050. Hinkley Point C, a 3.2-gigawatt (GW) nuclear power station under construction, is the first large-scale nuclear project in over two decades but has faced delays (now expected to connect to the grid by 2029–2031) and cost overruns (estimated at £34.98 billion). The UK is also advancing small modular reactors (SMRs), with a government competition launched in 2023 to develop SMRs for deployment by the early 2030s. Reforms announced in February 2025 aim to streamline planning and regulatory processes to support both large-scale and SMR projects, including co-locating SMRs with energy-intensive sites like AI data centers.

4. United States

The U.S. has seen renewed interest in nuclear energy, driven by energy demand from AI and data centers. In October 2024, the Biden-Harris Administration announced a $900 million funding program to support the deployment of Generation III+ small modular reactors (SMRs), with applications open until April 2025. Following his inauguration as the 47th President in January 2025, Donald Trump’s administration re-issued this solicitation in March 2025, aligning it with a policy to prioritize technical merit and expand nuclear capacity. Trump has advocated for building new power plants, including SMRs, to enhance energy sovereignty and reduce costs, though no specific plan for “hundreds” of plants was confirmed in August 2024.

Major tech companies like Amazon (partnering with X-energy for 5 GW), Google (with Kairos Power for 500 MW), and Microsoft (exploring Three Mile Island’s restart) are investing in nuclear to power data centers. Bill Gates’ TerraPower is developing a Natrium SMR in Wyoming, targeting operation by 2030.

5. Estonia

Estonia is actively pursuing nuclear energy through small modular reactors (SMRs) to support its green transition and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, particularly oil shale. In 2019, Fermi Energia signed an agreement with GE Hitachi to study the feasibility of deploying a BWRX-300 SMR. By 2023, Estonia’s government advanced plans to develop a legislative framework for nuclear energy, with Fermi Energia aiming for a construction decision by 2026 and potential operation by the early 2030s. This policy shift diversifies Estonia’s energy mix and aligns with EU climate goals.

6. China

China is a global leader in both renewable and nuclear energy development. In 2024, China General Nuclear Power Group (CGN) operated 28 reactors with a capacity of 31,798 MWe, generating 242.2 TWh, a 6% increase from 2023. China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) operated 25 reactors (23.75 GWe), with a slight decline in output due to maintenance. China has 16 reactors under construction, with projects like Huizhou/Taipingling Unit 1 set for commercial operation in 2025. The Linglong One, the world’s first commercial land-based SMR, is operational in Hainan. Nuclear energy remains integral to China’s energy mix, complementing its massive renewable and coal capacities to meet rising electricity demand and carbon neutrality goals by 2060.

Governance and Regulatory Hurdles

The revival of nuclear energy is driven by innovative technologies and a growing recognition of its potential as a reliable, low-carbon sustainable energy source. With nuclear power generating approximately 9% of the world’s electricity and contributing significantly to global climate mitigation strategies, its role in sustainable energy systems is being redefined. Central to this transformation is the deployment of next-generation reactor designs such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs), which promise improved safety, efficiency, and waste management capabilities.

However, this resurgence faces a host of governance and regulatory challenges. Chief among them is the complexity and rigidity of current regulatory frameworks. Many nuclear regulations were designed around large-scale, conventional reactors and have not yet adapted to the modular and innovative designs of new technologies. This misalignment results in long permitting timelines, bureaucratic hurdles, and escalating project costs. To address this, governments and international bodies are increasingly advocating for regulatory modernization, including risk-informed, performance-based licensing models that maintain safety while fostering innovation.

Transparency and public trust are also critical components of effective nuclear governance. Historical incidents like Chernobyl and Fukushima have left a deep imprint on public consciousness, reinforcing perceptions of nuclear energy as inherently risky. In response, nuclear authorities are placing greater emphasis on public engagement, proactive communication, and stakeholder inclusion throughout the project lifecycle. Countries are incorporating stakeholder-engaged safety cases into licensing and siting processes, aiming to demystify regulatory procedures and increase public confidence.

International cooperation is essential for harmonizing safety standards and preventing proliferation risks. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) continues to play a central role in monitoring compliance, sharing best practices, and facilitating peer reviews. Strategic initiatives such as the U.S.-led FIRST program and multilateral export controls aim to promote peaceful uses of nuclear technology while strengthening non-proliferation frameworks.

Economically, regulatory inefficiencies contribute to the high upfront costs associated with nuclear development. This has prompted calls for streamlined coordination among regulatory agencies, utilities, and developers to reduce redundant reviews and accelerate project delivery. Additionally, newer financing models – including public-private partnerships and advanced market commitments—are being explored to bridge investment gaps while meeting safety obligations.

Ultimately, governance and regulatory structures must evolve alongside the technologies they are meant to oversee. Ensuring robust oversight without stifling innovation will be key to the success of nuclear energy in the 21st century. If these barriers are addressed effectively, nuclear power can emerge as a cornerstone of a secure, low-carbon global energy system.

Countries are now embedding stakeholder-engaged safety cases into reactor licensing. These involve transparent data sharing, cross-generational knowledge transfer, and long-term waste planning.

New Technologies Drive the Revival of Nuclear Energy

The resurgence of nuclear energy in the global energy mix is no longer a theoretical prospect but a rapidly materializing reality, underpinned by technological innovation and shifting political priorities. As countries grapple with the dual imperatives of decarbonization and energy security, nuclear power is increasingly viewed not only as a complementary partner to renewables but also as a stabilizing backbone for clean electricity systems.

Central to this revival is the emergence of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs), and Generation IV reactor technologies. These innovations address many of the shortcomings of traditional large-scale plants, offering modularity, enhanced safety features, and greater adaptability to diverse geographical and infrastructural contexts. Many of these designs integrate passive safety mechanisms, allowing them to shut down without human intervention or external power, thereby significantly reducing the risk of meltdown.

Moreover, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into nuclear operations has introduced a new paradigm in predictive maintenance, autonomous control, and real-time monitoring. AI-driven digital twins replicate the behavior of physical systems and can simulate a range of operational scenarios, enhancing reactor responsiveness and reliability. Combined with high-performance computing and advanced neutron flux monitoring, these tools are reshaping how safety and efficiency are achieved in nuclear facilities.

In parallel, developments in fuel cycle technologies and materials science are enabling the use of new fuels and coolants that improve thermal efficiency and reduce waste generation. Research into thorium fuel cycles and fast neutron reactors may unlock further benefits, including greater fuel availability and lower proliferation risks. However, these technologies are still experimental, and proliferation concerns depend on fuel cycle management.

Government policy is aligning with these advances, providing targeted financial incentives, regulatory modernization, and international collaboration frameworks to accelerate deployment. Initiatives such as the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program and Europe’s joint SMR research partnerships – though not formalized enough – reflect a coordinated push to bring next-generation designs to market.

Nevertheless, the successful deployment of these technologies hinges on overcoming persistent challenges—namely public perception, financing hurdles, regulatory complexity, and geopolitical sensitivities. Effective governance, sustained investment, and transparent communication will be essential to bridge the gap between innovation and implementation.

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FAQ: The Return of Nuclear Energy as a Sustainable Energy Source

1. Why is nuclear energy experiencing a global revival?

Nuclear energy is regaining attention due to the urgent need for low-carbon, reliable energy sources. The combination of climate change, energy security concerns, and technological innovation—especially in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and AI integration—has made nuclear energy more appealing to governments and industry stakeholders.

2. Is nuclear power really sustainable?

Yes. On a life-cycle basis, nuclear energy produces between 4–12 gCO₂e/kWh, comparable to wind and much lower than fossil fuels. It also offers a high capacity factor and base-load reliability, which intermittent renewables like wind and solar cannot guarantee alone.

3. What new technologies are driving this nuclear resurgence?

Key innovations include:

• SMRs and AMRs: Smaller, modular, safer reactors.
• AI-driven monitoring: Enhances real-time safety, predictive maintenance, and autonomous operation.
• Advanced materials: Enable higher temperature operations and reduce waste.
• Thorium fuel cycles: Potential for lower waste and greater fuel availability.

4. What are the main environmental advantages of nuclear energy?

• Very low CO₂ emissions over its lifecycle.
• Avoids air pollutants such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides.
• Less impact on eutrophication and acidification compared to fossil fuels.

5. How does nuclear compare economically to solar and wind?

Nuclear’s global Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) ranges from $75–$100/MWh (2024 estimates), higher than onshore wind ($25–$60/MWh) and solar PV ($30–$70/MWh). However, nuclear’s base-load reliability and longevity (60–80 years) make it competitive when carbon pricing is applied, offsetting the need for storage or backup systems required for renewables.

6. How have different countries responded to nuclear energy in recent years?

Responses vary: France relies heavily on nuclear (~70% of electricity), Belgium extended reactor lifespans in 2025, and the UK is advancing large-scale and SMR projects. Germany completed its phase-out in 2023, increasing coal use. China and India are expanding nuclear capacity. South Korea reversed its phase-out policy in 2022–2023, aligning with Japan’s reactor restart efforts post-Fukushima, driven by energy security and climate goals. The U.S. is investing in SMRs to power data centers.

7. What are the public attitudes toward nuclear energy?

• U.S.: Public support now outweighs opposition (1.5:1 ratio).
• Europe: Mixed views—strong support in France, opposition in Germany/Austria.
• Asia: Varied—China and India support nuclear; Japan remains skeptical post-Fukushima.
• Africa: Focused on access and reliability rather than historical risks.

8. What are the biggest regulatory challenges for nuclear development?

Outdated frameworks designed for large-scale reactors hinder the deployment of modern modular designs. Governments are pushing for risk-informed, performance-based licensing and international cooperation through bodies like the IAEA.

9. How is artificial intelligence used in modern nuclear facilities?

AI enhances nuclear operations through predictive maintenance, autonomous control, and real-time monitoring. For example, GE Hitachi’s AI-driven systems monitor neutron flux and optimize reactor performance, while digital twins simulate scenarios to improve safety and efficiency.

10. What role will nuclear energy play in the future energy mix?

Nuclear is expected to:

• Complement renewables by providing dispatchable power
• Enable deeper decarbonization across sectors
• Anchor energy systems with high reliability and security
• Foster technological leadership through global collaboration and innovation