Nuclear Power

What Is Nuclear Power? Nuclear power is the use of nuclear reactions that release nuclear energy, which generates heat. The energy produced is used by steam turbines which then produce electricity in a nuclear power station.

How Efficient Is Nuclear Power And How Much Does It Cost? Nuclear power is very efficient, it is one of the most efficient energy sources, it has a capacity factor of 92 percent. In 2014 nuclear power was estamated to be $1.64/ kwh

Equipment Needed The general nuclear power equipment needed are the reactors, control systems, steam turbines, pipes and valves.

Nuclear Power Plant

Reactor

Steam Turbines

Pipes

Valves

Nuclear Power Plant

Consumption and Usage Nuclear power plants provide for over 12 percent of the worlds electricity production. The US uses 20% The three top countries that use the most nuclear energy are: 1.France(76.9%) 2.Slovakia(56.8%) 3.Hungary(53.6%)

Advantages Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions Power and Efficient Reliable Easy transportation Continuous Supply, Widely Available Low Fuel Cost

Disadvantages Radioactive Waste Nuclear Accidents Nuclear Radiation High Costs National Risk Impacts Terrestrial and Marine Life It is nonrenewable Fuel Availability (uranium is scarce and nuclear power plants rely on it)

Potential Risk Radiation Reactor Accidents Radioactive Wastes Other Radioactive Problems Theses all cause extreme health risks

Disasters Chernobyl, Urkraine 1986 Fukushima, Japan 2011 Buenos Aires, Argentina 1983