As the world races towards net-zero carbon targets, the debate over which energy sources are truly green has intensified. Among the contenders, nuclear energy continues to spark both hope and controversy.
But is nuclear power genuinely sustainable, and does it qualify as a green energy source in the same way that wind, solar or hydroelectric power does?
Here, Haush explores whether electricity generated from nuclear power is renewable, sustainable, and environmentally friendly, and how it compares in cost across the UK, Europe, USA, Canada, South America, Asia, and Africa.
Why Nuclear Energy Is Considered Green and Low-Carbon
Nuclear power is often misunderstood. While it doesn’t fit the classic definition of “renewable”, since it uses uranium, a finite resource, it is indisputably low-carbon, efficient, and clean in operation.
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Zero Emissions:
Nuclear power plants produce no direct greenhouse gas emissions during operation.
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Low Carbon Footprint:
Over its lifecycle, nuclear energy has a carbon intensity similar to wind and solar.
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High Efficiency:
Nuclear reactors operate at over 90% capacity factor, far exceeding solar and wind, which average around 20–40%.
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Minimal Land Use:
Unlike large-scale solar or wind farms, nuclear plants have a small geographic footprint.
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Reliability:
Nuclear energy provides a stable, base-load power supply, unaffected by weather or daylight.
Because of these qualities, nuclear electricity generation is recognised by the European Union’s green taxonomy as a sustainable, low-carbon energy source.
Global Cost of Nuclear Electricity: A Regional Comparison
The cost of nuclear power generation can vary significantly depending on the region, infrastructure, and regulatory environment. Here’s a breakdown of costs across major regions:
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United Kingdom
- Hinkley Point C, the UK’s flagship nuclear project, is projected to cost £22–£23 billion.
- The levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) from nuclear in the UK ranges from £95 to £125 per MWh.
- While expensive upfront, nuclear offers stable long-term pricing and energy security.
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Europe
- France gets around 70% of its electricity from nuclear, benefiting from low LCOE and energy independence.
- However, Germany has phased out nuclear, citing public concern and waste issues.
- Typical LCOE in Europe is €90–€110 per MWh, depending on the country and plant age.
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United States
- New nuclear reactors, like the Vogtle Units 3 & 4 in Georgia, cost upwards of $14 billion
- S. nuclear LCOE sits around $112–$189 per MWh, impacted by construction delays and regulatory hurdles.
- Despite cost challenges, nuclear supplies 19% of US electricity, with no direct emissions.
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Canada
- Ontario relies on nuclear for over 60% of its electricity.
- The CANDU reactor system allows on-site fuel recycling, improving sustainability.
- LCOE is competitive, estimated between C$60–C$90 per MWh, thanks to government support and existing infrastructure.
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South America
- Argentina operates three nuclear reactors; Atucha III, built in partnership with China, will add 1,200 MWe capacity.
- Investment in nuclear energy supports energy independence and grid stability.
- Projected LCOE for new reactors is approximately $100–$120 per MWh.
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Asia
- China is aggressively expanding its nuclear capacity with plans for over 150 new reactors.
- India and Bangladesh are following suit; Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant in Bangladesh is a flagship $12.65 billion project.
- Asian nuclear LCOE averages $85–$105 per MWh, with lower labour and construction costs.
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Africa
- South Africa’s Koeberg plant is currently the only active reactor on the continent.
- Countries like Egypt, Nigeria and Kenya are exploring nuclear to diversify energy supply.
- New nuclear projects are expected to cost $90–$130 per MWh, with support from international partners.
Environmental Impact and Sustainability of Nuclear Power
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Pros
- Virtually no air pollution or CO₂ emissions
- Small land and water footprint
- Waste volume is small and manageable (stored safely on-site)
- Extremely reliable, ideal for replacing coal or gas.
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Challenges
- Radioactive waste requires long-term storage solutions
- High initial capital cost
- Lengthy construction timelines
- Public perception and safety concerns remain significant
Despite these hurdles, most scientists and climate experts agree: nuclear power is essential for reaching net-zero goals.
Final Thoughts: Is Nuclear Power Truly Sustainable?
Yes, nuclear power is a sustainable and green energy source by modern standards. While not renewable in the traditional sense, it ticks every other box:
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Low carbon emissions
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High energy efficiency
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Long operational lifespan
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Minimal environmental impact
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Cost-effective in the long term
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Stable and reliable energy output
As the world moves toward decarbonisation, nuclear energy offers a viable, scalable solution, especially when combined with renewables like wind and solar. With improvements in small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced waste recycling, nuclear energy may well define the next era of clean, sustainable electricity.
The post Is Nuclear Energy Sustainable? Its Role in a Green Future first appeared on Haush.