On the utility of Nuclear Power – Embracing nuclear power

Source: This post on the utility of Nuclear Power has been created based on the article “Embracing nuclear power” published in “Business Standard” on 5^th December 2023.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3 Environment – Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation.

News: The article discusses the importance of nuclear power in achieving renewable energy targets as part of the global commitment to prevent further climate change.

Two pledges concerning renewable energy were announced at the recent UNFCCC COP-28. This includes:

1. Tripling of the global renewable energy capacity by 2030.
2. Tripling nuclear energy by 2050 (pledge by 22 countries).

In addition to this, the International Atomic Energy Agency drafted a statement, alongside multiple countries, making it clear that “net zero needs nuclear power”.

This highlights the importance of nuclear energy as a tool to achieve renewable energy targets. However, India was unwilling to sign these declarations (due to references to phasing down coal generation).

What are the advantages of Nuclear Power generation compared to other renewable energy sources?

High Output: Just around 400 nuclear reactors in 30 countries produce 10% of the world’s power and represent 25% of global low-carbon generation.

Consistent Power Generation: Unlike solar or wind power, which are intermittent and dependent on weather conditions, nuclear power provides consistent electricity ensuring a stable energy supply.

High Energy Density: Nuclear reactions release a tremendous amount of energy from a small amount of fuel, making it highly efficient.

Less Land Requirement: Nuclear power plants typically occupy less land compared to large-scale renewable projects like solar or wind farms.

What are the disadvantages of Nuclear Power generation?

Radioactive Waste: Nuclear power generates radioactive waste that remains hazardous for thousands of years. Proper disposal and management of this waste poses significant challenges.

Risk of Accidents: Nuclear accidents can have grave consequences, as seen in incidents like Chernobyl and Fukushima.

Limited Fuel Availability: While uranium, the primary fuel for nuclear reactors, is available, its supply is finite. There are concerns about potential scarcity in the long run.

Nuclear Proliferation: The technology used in nuclear power plants can also be diverted for the production of nuclear weapons, raising proliferation concerns.

A detailed article on Nuclear Energy can be read here.

What should India do?

Revisiting the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act: It has led to limited private investment in the nuclear sector in India.

Diversification: India remains overdependent on Russia. Current liability systems must be changed to make it easier to bring in newer reactors from France and other countries.

Question for practice:

Critically analyse Nuclear Power as a viable source of energy. Discuss its impact in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.