Nuclear Green Mix | SchylerEdmundson

Opinion | The Big Debate: Should Nuclear Energy Be Part of a Green New Deal?

Author Schyler Edmundson

Commissioned Piece Written in Summer 2020 and First Published in the Toronto Star

Abstract

As we grapple with the urgent need to reduce fossil fuel consumption to combat climate change, nuclear energy emerges as a powerful and transformative solution. Once overshadowed by catastrophic events and public fear, nuclear power is now reclaiming its position as a pivotal player in the global energy landscape. This article delves into the details, applications, and revolutionary potential of nuclear energy, exploring its history, contemporary relevance, and the reasons behind its increasing popularity.

Keywords: Nuclear Energy, Green New Deal, Climate Change, Low-Carbon Future, Energy Policy, Multilateral Initiatives

Summary: This article advocates for the inclusion of nuclear energy in the quest for a sustainable, low-carbon future. As the climate crisis intensifies, reducing fossil fuel dependency is imperative, and nuclear energy offers a reliable, proven solution that can significantly cut carbon emissions. The authors highlight nuclear power's low lifecycle emissions, land use efficiency, and alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. They address safety concerns by emphasizing the strong safety record of Canadian nuclear plants and the manageable costs of waste management. Additionally, they argue for robust regulatory frameworks and international cooperation to maximize nuclear energy's potential. While critics point out that nuclear energy creates fewer jobs compared to renewables, the authors contend that it provides stable employment opportunities and can complement renewable sources by ensuring consistent energy supply. Ultimately, the article calls for a balanced approach to energy policy that embraces all viable solutions, including nuclear, in the transition to a sustainable energy system.

A Brief History of Nuclear Energy

Nuclear energy has a storied history, beginning in the early 20th century with the discovery of nuclear fission. The first controlled nuclear chain reaction occurred in 1942, led by physicist Enrico Fermi in Chicago. This milestone marked the dawn of nuclear power, which was initially harnessed for military purposes during World War II. The post-war era saw a rapid expansion of nuclear technology for electricity generation, with the first commercial nuclear power plant, Calder Hall in the UK, coming online in 1956.

Despite its promising beginnings, nuclear energy faced significant setbacks in the 1970s and 1980s, primarily due to high-profile accidents like Three Mile Island and Chernobyl, which sowed public distrust and fear. However, advancements in reactor technology and safety measures have significantly reduced the risks associated with nuclear energy, paving the way for its resurgence in today’s energy discourse.

Nuclear Energy's Relevance Today

In the face of the climate crisis, nuclear energy is more relevant than ever. As fossil fuel emissions continue to rise, the need for low-carbon alternatives has become urgent. Nuclear power offers a reliable, low-carbon energy source that can help mitigate climate change while meeting the growing global energy demand. It produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions during operation, making it a crucial ally in our fight against climate change.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), “nuclear power is essential to the low-carbon transition.” The capacity of nuclear energy to displace billions of tonnes of CO2 emissions annually presents a compelling case for its inclusion in a sustainable energy future. In addition, as we strive to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, nuclear power can provide a stable energy supply while contributing to social and economic development.

Applications and Uses of Nuclear Energy

Nuclear energy is not only a viable solution for electricity generation but also holds promise in various applications. Beyond traditional power generation, nuclear technology can be harnessed for:

Desalination: Nuclear reactors can provide the energy required for desalination processes, offering fresh water solutions for arid regions.
Industrial Heat: Nuclear energy can supply high-temperature heat for industrial processes, improving efficiency and reducing carbon footprints.
Medical Applications: Nuclear technology is crucial in the medical field, providing isotopes for diagnostics and treatment in cancer therapy.
Hydrogen Production: Nuclear energy can play a significant role in producing hydrogen fuel, offering a clean alternative to fossil fuels for transportation and industrial use.

Weighing Safety Concerns

Safety has always been a primary concern for the public regarding nuclear energy. The historical record of Canada’s nuclear plants provides compelling evidence of their safety. While there have been equipment failures, they have not led to significant public harm. In fact, according to the IEA, “nuclear power has one of the lowest accident rates of any energy technology.”

Critics often reference catastrophic events like Chernobyl and Fukushima to argue against nuclear energy. However, it is essential to acknowledge the significant advancements in technology and safety protocols that have occurred since these incidents. Modern reactors are designed with multiple safety features, including passive safety systems that can cool the reactor without human intervention.

Moreover, the challenges associated with nuclear waste management are often cited as a deterrent. While it is true that managing nuclear waste presents challenges, understanding the costs involved reveals a different perspective. The cost to safely manage nuclear waste is a fraction of a penny on the 6.1 cents per kilowatt-hour charged for nuclear energy in Ontario, similar to a pension plan, where today’s contributions address tomorrow’s liabilities.

The Role of Regulation and Multilateral Initiatives

To fully realize the potential of nuclear energy, robust regulatory frameworks and international cooperation are essential. The OECD emphasizes that “effective regulation and oversight are crucial to maintaining public trust and ensuring safety.” Multilateral initiatives can help establish consistent safety standards and facilitate knowledge sharing among countries.

By fostering collaboration among nations, we can create a safer and more efficient global nuclear energy landscape. The IEA notes, “Nuclear energy is part of a balanced and sustainable energy policy, and its expansion requires collaboration across borders.” Such cooperation can help mitigate geopolitical risks associated with nuclear technology and ensure that safety and ethical considerations are prioritized.

Nuclear Energy and the Green New Deal

The Green New Deal encompasses more than just emissions reductions; it advocates for job creation and social equity. Critics argue that nuclear energy does not create as many jobs as renewables like solar and wind. While it’s true that solar energy leads to more jobs per gigawatt-hour generated, we must not overlook the potential of nuclear energy to create stable, long-term employment in skilled positions and supply chains.

Additionally, nuclear energy can complement renewables by providing consistent power generation, addressing the intermittency issues that arise with solar and wind. The IEA states that “nuclear can play a critical role in ensuring energy security as we transition to a renewable-dominant energy system.” As we navigate this transition, it is crucial to recognize that a diversified energy portfolio, including nuclear, can help stabilize the grid and ensure that we meet energy demands.

Conclusion: Embracing All Solutions

In conclusion, nuclear energy should not be dismissed in discussions about a Green New Deal. While it is essential to address the humanitarian and environmental concerns surrounding nuclear power, it is equally important to recognize its potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and support a stable energy future. With the right safety regulations, robust international cooperation, and a focus on sustainability, nuclear power can play a pivotal role in achieving a low-carbon future.

The urgency of the climate crisis calls for embracing all available solutions, and nuclear energy stands as a safe, reliable, and effective option in the transition toward a sustainable energy system. As we weigh the pros and cons, it is vital to approach nuclear energy with an open mind, understanding that it can be part of a broader strategy to combat climate change and secure a better future for all.

Works Cited

International Energy Agency (IEA). (2021). Global Energy Review 2021.
OECD. (2021). Nuclear Energy and the Environment.
Prof. M.V. Ramana holds the Simons Chair in Disarmament, Global and Human Security at the University of British Columbia, and Director of the Liu Institute for Global Issues at the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs.
Prof. Jatin Nathwani is the executive director of the Waterloo Institute for Sustainable Energy and Ontario Research Chair in Public Policy for Sustainable Energy at the University of Waterloo.
Schyler Edmundson is a recent graduate from the Master of Public Policy and Global Affairs program at the University of British Columbia.