ABSTRACT
The need to decarbonise the world’s energy system over the next 30 years is now widely recognised and the electricity sector is at the forefront of this effort. The question is what role, if any, civil nuclear power can play. This chapter provides the context for the nuclear option, highlighting lessons learned from the past, as well as key factors and trends that will influence its potential future role.
The 20th century saw a major transition in the world’s energy system driven by economic development, population growth and diverse new societal needs such as mass transportation systems, individual mobility and leisure. Technological developments led to productivity gains in energy supply and demand and an increasing number of energy carriers. Electricity emerged as arguably the most important energy carrier.
New issues emerged towards the end of the 20th century, with Climate Change and the associated issues of water resources and deforestation particularly prominent challenges for the 21st century. Radical solutions such as geo-engineering are being considered but they face considerable technological, legal and ethical challenges. Nuclear power’s contribution has plateaued, its future unknown following three major accidents, but recent developments are providing the context for a potential nuclear revival.
