What is Nuclear Energy?
Learn about the UK nuclear industry and acquire the essential knowledge to stay informed about the sector you wish to enter. We've included links to industry organizations, opportunities for skill enhancement, and resources for career guidance.
Understand the fundamentals of the technology. You definitely don’t need a PhD to grasp that a nuclear power plant is essentially a giant kettle. We offer explainer videos and additional resources if you wish to explore the details further.
Nuclear energy is frequently portrayed as dangerous, polluted, and unreliable, but this perception is misleading. Discover how nuclear power boasts the lowest lifecycle carbon footprint among all sources and occupies minimal land space.
Innovative reactor designs enable nuclear energy to play a greater role in reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change A variety of new small, large, and advanced reactors, along with technology, are on the horizon. The nuclear industry is entering an exciting era.
Nuclear energy excels in energy production, requiring minimal land, generating the lowest carbon emissions, and delivering the highest power output. Discover additional ways to harness nuclear energy.
The nuclear industry isn't just for those in lab coats with test tubes. It offers a variety of roles that demand a diverse set of skills and experiences. Discover more about the available positions and the skills needed.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions
What is nuclear energy?
Nuclear energy is the energy released during nuclear fission or fusion. It’s primarily used to generate electricity in nuclear power plants and is known for producing low-carbon energy.
How does nuclear power work?
Nuclear power plants use uranium fuel to produce heat through fission. This heat turns water into steam, which drives turbines to generate electricity.
Is nuclear energy safe?
Modern nuclear technology includes multiple safety systems. While risks exist, nuclear energy has one of the lowest fatality rates per unit of energy produced compared to other sources.
What are the benefits of nuclear energy?
Nuclear energy is reliable, produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions, and can generate large amounts of electricity from a small amount of fuel.
What careers are available in the nuclear industry?
The nuclear sector offers roles in engineering, operations, safety, project management, and more. Opportunities exist for both experienced professionals and newcomers. Check out our Types of Nuclear Jobs pages.
How can I start a career in nuclear?
You can begin by exploring training programs, apprenticeships, or academic courses in nuclear science or engineering. Visit our Training & Education page to learn more.