What are the sustainable benefits of nuclear power?

Aside from its safety and waste concerns, nuclear power is considered one of the most viable options for sustainable energy solutions. This owes to its clean, efficient production of power. Nuclear power is often praised for its ability to generate enormous amounts of energy with a small carbon footprint.

Nuclear energy is often fueled by a natural resource called uranium, found in rocks and seawater. This heavy metal undergoes a controlled chain reaction that generates heat and electricity. Uranium is known to be a significantly more powerful material than coal. While 1 kg of coal will create 8 kWh of power, the same amount of uranium will create 24,000,000 kWh of power. Although the construction of power plants can generate some carbon emissions, very few emissions result from the consumption of uranium at the plants. Therefore, the risk of creating air pollution is low.

Moreover, as opposed to other renewable energy methods such as solar and wind, nuclear power offers reliable power production at all times. Not only are they weather-independent, but nuclear power plants also require less maintenance. One plant can operate up to two years before refueling.