Nuclear energy and its role in the energy transition

Jesús V.

October 29, 2023

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Author: Jesús V, October 29, 2023.

Introduction

Currently the world faces great challenges such as meeting the growing demand for energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. For these reasons, the energy transition has become one of the possible responses to these problems. However, several alternative energy sources do not have the degrees of efficiency and continuity necessary to supplant fossil fuels. Therefore, nuclear energy emerges as a solution that deserves to be analyzed.

Nuclear energy is proposed as a bridge to the global energy transition by offering a source of electricity without significant carbon emissions. Its capabilities allow it to operate constantly, providing stability in energy generation. Which would result in reducing dependence on fossil fuels.

However, this alternative has important obstacles, which must be overcome if it is to be used in this transition process. In this article, we will explore the role of nuclear energy in the global energy transition. To do this, we will investigate aspects such as the current situation of global decarbonization, the opportunities and challenges that this energy source includes.

The energy transition and its difficulties

Currently, different nations are in the process of evaluating and adapting their energy systems to large demands ¹ . At the same time, efforts are being made to minimize CO ₂ emissions from fossil fuels. One of the main motivations for this is undoubtedly climate change, which can have negative impacts on the planet.

The search to reduce emissions led to the development and use of renewable energy systems to mitigate harmful effects on the environment. Clean energy comes from sources such as solar and wind, each with its own characteristics. The creation of a varied portfolio of renewable sources projects the possibility of reducing dependence on fossil fuel, and thus, heading towards a cleaner future.

Despite the great benefits of adopting this new energy model, there are obstacles that prevent its complete adoption. Among the main difficulties facing the energy transition we have:

Intermittencies: Due to the intermittent nature of the sun and wind, renewable energy sources cannot meet constant demands. Resulting in one of the main reasons for the current dependence on fossil fuels.
Resource availability: Depending on the area, the availability of resources may be affected. And with this, the efficiency and viability of the energy generation system will be limited.
Resource dependencies: In order to implement some form of renewable energy, it is necessary to have specific resources. As a consequence, this causes a reduction in options for those areas that do not have a favorable environment.
High costs: Although the costs of producing clean energy have decreased over time, it is still a more expensive alternative compared to traditional production. Therefore, the adoption of these large-scale energy systems may continue to raise questions.

Nuclear energy

Nuclear energy is a manifestation of energy released by the atomic nucleus, made up of protons and neutrons. This source of energy is generated through two different processes: fission, which involves the division of atomic nuclei into smaller fragments, and fusion, which involves the joining of nuclei.

The predominant form of nuclear energy used globally for electricity generation is nuclear fission ² . This process consists of the reaction of the nucleus of an atom being divided into two or more small nuclei, releasing energy during its development.

Nuclear Energy: Nuclear Fission Process — Figure 1. Nuclear Fission Process (Graphic: A. Vargas/IAEA)

When hit by a neutron, the nucleus of a uranium-235 atom splits into two smaller nuclei, plus two or three additional neutrons. These additional neutrons will collide with other nearby uranium-235 atoms, inducing their splitting and generating more neutrons in a multiplicative process, thus creating a chain reaction in a very short instant.

Each time this reaction is triggered, energy is released in the form of heat and radiation. The heat generated can be converted into electricity in a nuclear plant, similar to how heat from fossil fuels such as coal, gas and oil is used to generate electrical power.

Benefits of adopting nuclear energy

The implementation of this energy source can bring a series of benefits, such as:

Resource supply: This type of energy stands out for its long-term supply potential. Unlike fossil fuels, nuclear energy does not depend on finite supplies such as oil or gas. Nuclear reactors use uranium, which is more abundant than we usually think. Additionally, advanced reactor technologies, such as molten salt reactors, can take advantage of depleted uranium and other alternative fuels.

Energy stability: One of the challenges of renewable energies, such as solar and wind, is their intermittent production. That is, when the sun and wind are not present, a backup source will be required. Nuclear energy offers a solution in this regard. Nuclear reactors can operate constantly ³ , providing a stable energy base that complements the fluctuations of renewable energy.

Energy efficiency: Compared to other renewable energy sources, nuclear energy has a high production efficiency in relation to its resources. Therefore, it offers greater viability and sustainability than other energies.

Technological maturity: This is a fairly well-known concept, which is why it has a great history of development and continuous improvement. Therefore, using it would not be a challenge since it results in a source with known parameters. Additionally, there are already a large number of nuclear power plants, so the construction of these energy production centers does not represent an enigma.

Implementation challenges

Despite its benefits, nuclear energy faces significant challenges. Addressing these challenges is critical to adopting this renewable energy source on a larger scale.

Public perception: Nuclear energy is often associated with an aura of fear due to past events ⁴ . As a consequence, concerns can be generated about issues such as plant safety, nuclear waste or even possible accidents.

Nuclear safety: The safety of a nuclear plant is undoubtedly one of the most delicate aspects to take into account. To prevent and minimize any type of inconvenience or accident, it is necessary to develop strict protocols and impose precise regulations.

Costs: A nuclear plant includes a series of costs that range from construction, production to dismantling. Each of them must be considered before carrying out the adoption of your electrical energy generation system.

Nuclear waste management: Although the amount of nuclear waste generated is relatively small compared to fossil fuel waste, the safe management of this waste is important. In this sense, technological advances, such as deep geological storage, offer promising solutions.

Nuclear energy in the energy transition

In a world trying to reverse climate change, decarbonizing electric power is a critical priority. Mainly due to its ability to generate electricity without significant emissions. In addition, it produces heat, which can be useful for district heating networks and some industrial facilities.

The transition requires moving from the incessant use of fossil fuels to a set of clean energies in the electricity sector. The favorable attributes of nuclear energy will increase its value to electrical systems as they progressively decarbonize. This type of energy will become increasingly valuable as variable renewables, which are non-dispatchable and less flexible, provide an increasing share of electricity production.

However, its projection depends on the decisions made by policymakers and companies regarding the speed of construction of new reactors and the duration of continuous operations of existing nuclear reactors.

Currently, for countries like France, nuclear energy represents an important part of the energy mix, so its carbon emissions are remarkably low. Thus demonstrating the crucial role that this type of energy can play in the fight against global warming.

Conclusions

In a world that faces an imminent climate crisis, nuclear energy is imposed as one of the pillars that will propel us towards the energy transition. Its ability to generate electricity, without carbon emissions, is an essential tool to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, for it to play its part in the fight against climate change, it is imperative to overcome obstacles and change perceptions.

Challenges such as high upfront costs, safety, and public concerns should not obscure the fact that it is a viable and effective option to mitigate damage to our environment. However, it is essential to invest in safer technologies, responsibly manage nuclear waste, and educate the public about the benefits and safety of this industry.

The energy future of our planet depends on making the right decisions. Nuclear energy is a tool that must be used with caution, it can pave the way to a cleaner, sustainable and less dependent future on fossil fuels. The transition to a greener, healthier world requires considering all available options, and this alternative deserves its place on the global energy stage.