Nuclear Power to Mitigate Climate Change: Pathways to a Sustainable Future

Abstract

This study examines the crucial role of nuclear power as a resilient and low-carbon electricity generation source, highlighting its essential contribution to diversifying energy sources away from fossil fuels. With the increasing urgency to mitigate climate change, nuclear power stands out not only for its high energy density and reliability but also for its ability to complement renewable energy sources, thus aiding in the global transition towards a sustainable energy future. This paper synthesizes recent research and global trends, demonstrating the expanding capacity of nuclear power under the lens of climate change mitigation, examining its role from three perspectives: as a low-carbon power supply, a means to enhance energy security and reliability, and its integration with renewable energy sources. The manuscript navigates through the commitments of various nations to net-zero targets, the rise of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and advanced reactor technologies, and their implications for safety, public acceptance, and policy formulation. Through a comprehensive review, this work underscores the potential of nuclear power in the energy mix to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions, addresses the associated challenges, and outlines future research directions to overcome these hurdles. As the world gravitates towards a low-carbon future, nuclear energy emerges as a pivotal element in the quest for a sustainable and secure energy landscape, advocating for a nuanced understanding and strategic deployment of nuclear technology in harmony with renewable energy sources.