Nuclear Power and Energy Solutions

A lot of individuals tend to opt for the idea that nuclear power and energy solutions are far apart from each other. Based on the kind of radioactive waste and other aspects produced by nuclear energy, environmentalists tend to believe that it should never be a part of an energy solution. But today, we are challenging that belief by hitting you with a set of points that can help you understand. So without further ado, let’s head into the matter and hear things out.

Misplaced

One of the main reasons why environmentalists believe that nuclear power should never be included as an energy solution is due to its effects on global warming. The production and emergence of radioactive fuels tend to form the basis of their judgement and how the earth is getting warmer. But when you look deeper into these aspects, you will realize the condemnation of this efficient power source is targeted on a low-carbon baseload of energy. As a result, nuclear power can be a significant component to save our planet from entering an extreme stage of destruction.

Nuclear Fission

Nuclear power produces energy through nuclear fission and not through the process of chemical burning. Due to this, baseload electricity will not produce carbon, which is the main element of global warming. So making the switch from coal to natural gas is an essential step towards decarbonizing. On the other hand, switching from coal to nuclear power moves forward towards the process of radical decarbonizing. Since nuclear power plants tend to release greenhouse gases only from ancillary use of fossil fuels during aspects of construction, fuel processing, decommissioning and maintenance, it amounts to around 4-5%, which is the same for a natural gas-fired power plant.

Higher Capacity

 Nuclear power plants operate at higher capacities when compared to other renewable energy sources or fossil fuels. As an example, we can analyze nuclear production aspects during the year 2016. In that year alone, almost 20% of electricity in the U.S was produced by nuclear power plants, and these plants had operated at an average of 92.3% of capacity. So when you compare the same with U.S hydroelectric systems, you will receive disappointing results as it produced only 38.2%. Even plants that are powered by coal can generate electricity about half the time, and reasons such as fuel costs and nocturnal variations are cited for the same.

Conclusion

Once you analyze these points, you will be left with the understanding that nuclear power is not only the answer to the enormous threat of global warming but also for the flow of electricity when renewable sources vary. Hence, it is valuable and deserves to be a part of energy solutions.