As a region with one of the highest energy consumption rates globally, the future development of nuclear power in the European Union is not just a choice—it's a necessity. Nuclear energy plays a crucial role in ensuring a stable supply and helping to reshape the energy mix. On March 14, media outlets reported that 12 EU countries, including the UK, France, and Spain, formed a ministerial coalition to reaffirm their commitment to nuclear energy as a key low-carbon power source. This marks a significant shift from the EU’s previous cautious stance following the Fukushima disaster in Japan, where many nations had considered phasing out nuclear power.
Meanwhile, in the United States, South Carolina Power and Gas Company made a major breakthrough by successfully pouring the foundation for AP1000 Unit 2 at the VC Summer nuclear plant. This milestone marks the first concrete pour for a U.S. nuclear project in over three decades, signaling renewed interest in nuclear energy.
Wang Binghua, Chairman of the National Nuclear Power Technology Corporation, emphasized that Europe’s reliance on nuclear power is driven by both energy security and the need to reduce carbon emissions. As of now, the EU operates 143 nuclear reactors across 14 countries, with France leading the way with 58 units. Nuclear power accounts for 35% of the EU’s total electricity generation, making it a cornerstone of the region’s energy strategy. However, after the Fukushima incident, several countries like Germany and Switzerland decided to phase out nuclear power, highlighting the ongoing debate around safety and public perception.
Despite these challenges, nuclear energy has regained attention as an essential part of the EU’s long-term energy strategy. The “Energy 2020†and “2050 Energy Roadmap†strategies emphasize the importance of reducing emissions and increasing the share of low-carbon energy sources. While renewable options like wind and bioenergy are being promoted, they come with limitations—such as high energy input requirements and intermittency issues. Wang pointed out that nuclear power offers a more consistent and reliable alternative.
However, public concerns about nuclear safety remain strong. Many Europeans still remember the Chernobyl disaster in 1986, and the Fukushima incident has only deepened these fears. In recent months, protests against nuclear power have increased, with Germany announcing plans to shut down all its nuclear plants by 2022. Wang stressed that safety must always be the top priority, even as the push for nuclear expansion continues.
In China, discussions about nuclear power also continue. During a recent seminar, CPPCC member Lu Qizhou highlighted the inefficiencies of transporting coal via railways and the high energy losses involved. He suggested that building nuclear power stations near areas with improved safety standards could be a better long-term solution.
With growing energy demands and increasing reliance on imported fuels, nuclear power remains a strategic option for many countries. While challenges persist, the global trend suggests that nuclear energy will play a key role in shaping the future of clean and sustainable power.
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