From an energy production perspective, nuclear energy is pretty good at what it does. It uses the least land, produces the lowest carbon, and creates the most power.
#1 Nuclear Energy is Green. In 2020 EDF's eight nuclear power stations generated enough low carbon electricity for 44% of UK homes. This clean energy production has avoided 15.9m tonnes of CO2 emissions, like taking 7.3m cars off UK roads for a year.
#2 As discussed in our post about how a nuclear reactor works, the operator can control the output of a nuclear reactor. That means reactors adjust their production to match changes in demand or renewable generation - e.g. it isn't a windy or sunny day.
This flexibility is significant. Often overlooked, the flexibility of nuclear energy aligns with the intermittency of renewables, allowing renewables and nuclear power to work hand in hand.
#3 There is an opportunity to use nuclear to create hydrogen, a clean-burning alternative fuel. We're working on a new generation of reactors that could provide clean heat to heavy industry and drive out fossil fuels.
#4 Nuclear energy for the propulsion systems of submarines operates across the world. There is work ongoing to explore expanding the use for nuclear-powered cargo ships.
You've briefly learned about the uses of nuclear energy. Now find out more about:
