Nuclear Energy Renaissance: Countries Betting on the Atom

Exploring the global resurgence of nuclear energy and its impact on future energy landscapes.

Author

Philip Saparov
December 13, 2024

In partnership with

Greetings, inquisitive mind of energy evolution!

In this edition, we delve into the dynamic resurgence of nuclear energy across the globe. As nations seek sustainable and reliable power sources, nuclear energy emerges as a pivotal player in the transition to low-carbon economies. Join us as we explore how various countries are harnessing the atom to shape their energy futures.

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France is Europe’s nuclear powerhouse, generating about 70% of its electricity from nuclear energy. Although its state-owned energy giant EDF has struggled with aging reactors and maintenance delays, France is fully committed to nuclear energy as the cornerstone of its energy future.

The government recently increased its stake in EDF, signaling unwavering support, and plans to build six new reactors, with potential for more. This investment is about more than cutting carbon emissions—it’s about energy independence in a turbulent global landscape.

France is also investing in small modular reactors (SMRs), which are faster to build and easier to adapt to varying energy demands. EDF remains a critical player, tackling hurdles head-on while powering France’s ambitious goals.

Fun fact: France is a global leader in recycling nuclear fuel, turning waste into reusable energy. Even with challenges, they’re proving nuclear energy is here to stay.

If there’s one thing China knows how to do, it’s go big. With 24 nuclear reactors under construction and dozens more planned, they’re well on their way to becoming the world’s top nuclear energy producer by 2030.

China’s approach is about more than just powering its cities. They’re also exporting their nuclear technology, like the Hualong One reactor, to countries like Pakistan.

And they’re not afraid to experiment—they’re developing floating nuclear plants to bring energy to remote islands and offshore projects.

What’s fascinating is how fast they’re moving. In just a few decades, they’ve gone from relying heavily on coal to becoming a leader in clean energy. It’s a testament to their focus on innovation and their push to hit ambitious carbon neutrality goals by 2060.

The U.S. might have some of the oldest nuclear plants in the world, but don’t count them out just yet. With fresh investments in small modular reactors (SMRs) and other advanced tech, America is reinventing how it does nuclear power.

These new reactors are smaller, safer, and quicker to build, which solves a lot of the challenges that come with traditional plants. Companies like NuScale and TerraPower (Bill Gates’ baby) are leading the way, promising reactors that are not only efficient but also cost-effective.

Here’s a cool tidbit: The U.S. is also diving into fusion energy—the ultimate clean energy dream. It’s still in the research phase, but if they crack it, it could change the energy game forever.

The UK is serious about its nuclear revival, and they’re not just talking the talk. To keep the lights on and hit net-zero emissions by 2050, the government is pulling out all the stops.

Enter Great British Nuclear (GBN), a new organization dedicated to driving the future of nuclear energy. They’ve even snapped up two sites from Hitachi to kickstart new projects.

Alongside major builds like Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C, the UK is betting on small modular reactors (SMRs) to shake things up. These smaller reactors are quicker to build and easier to adapt, making them a perfect fit for a flexible, green energy mix.

Fun fact: The UK was the first country ever to generate nuclear electricity, way back in 1956. Now, with GBN leading the way, they’re proving the nuclear comeback isn’t just a pipe dream—it’s the key to a cleaner, brighter future.

Japan’s relationship with nuclear energy has been complicated since the Fukushima disaster in 2011. But with rising energy costs and a strong desire to cut carbon emissions, the country is cautiously restarting its reactors.

Japan has ramped up safety measures, with some of the strictest regulations in the world. They’re also diving into advanced reactor tech to make their plants safer and more efficient. And while public trust has been slow to rebuild, the government is working hard to show that nuclear can be both safe and sustainable.

One unique aspect of Japan’s approach is how they reuse spent fuel. By converting it into mixed-oxide fuel, they reduce waste and make the most of their resources. It’s a smart way to tackle one of nuclear energy’s biggest challenges.

South Korea isn’t just using nuclear power—it’s selling it. The country’s APR1400 reactor design has already been exported to the UAE, and more deals are on the horizon.

At home, South Korea relies on nuclear for about 30% of its electricity and plans to increase that share. They’re also exploring innovative reactor designs and aiming to become a global leader in SMR technology.

Fun fact: South Korea operates one of the largest nuclear training centers in the world, ensuring their industry stays ahead of the curve. Their success in exporting reactors has made them a model for how nuclear expertise can drive economic growth.

The United Arab Emirates has made history with its Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, becoming the first Arab country to embrace nuclear power. This ambitious project is set to provide 25% of the nation’s electricity while slashing carbon emissions.

What’s impressive is how the UAE pulled this off. They partnered with South Korea for the technology and built a world-class regulatory system to ensure safety. Their approach is now a blueprint for other countries in the region looking to diversify their energy mix.

Here’s a standout detail: Barakah’s four reactors will save the UAE up to 21 million tons of carbon emissions annually. That’s like taking 3.2 million cars off the road without actually taking them off the road!

As we wrap up this exploration of the nuclear energy renaissance, it's clear that nations worldwide are recognizing the atom's potential in achieving energy security and environmental sustainability.

Stay tuned for more insightful analyses in future editions. Until next time, keep exploring and stay informed.

Warm regards,

Shane Fulmer