article · Energy Exploration & Exploitation
Nuclear power provides low-carbon electricity that contributes to global decarbonisation and net zero emission pathways. Under the net zero emissions paradigm, global nuclear capacity would need to expand from 413 gigawatts in early 2022 to 812 gigawatts by 2050. However, current projections anticipate global capacity reaching approximately 530 gigawatts by 2050, resulting in a 35 per cent shortfall compared to the net zero trajectory. Alongside nuclear expansion, reaching these climate targets requires massive growth in renewable energy investments, shifting from an annual average of 325 billion US dollars during 2016 to 2020 to 1.3 trillion US dollars between 2031 and 2035. Integrating nuclear energy into national strategies involves tackling key challenges, notably operational safety, waste management, and public perception. Together, substantial investments across both nuclear and renewable power remain critical for long-term global sustainability.
Transitioning to sustainable energy systems requires balancing multiple low-carbon electricity sources. Understanding the gap between projected nuclear capacity and net zero benchmarks helps policymakers and energy planners target capital effectively. Addressing safety and public concerns while ramping up funding for clean power is essential to prevent severe shortfalls in meeting global climate targets.
The abstract does not indicate a direct commercial application or technology transfer pathway, as it focuses on high-level energy transition projections. However, the data can inform strategic planning for energy providers, infrastructure investors, and policy bodies weighing nuclear and renewable capital expenditures. Because the work is an analytical assessment rather than a technical prototype, it operates at a macro-planning stage rather than near-market deployment.
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Nuclear power plays a pivotal role in sustainable electricity generation and global net zero emissions, contributing significantly to this secure pathway. Nuclear power capacity is expected to double, escalating from 413 gigawatts (GW) in early 2022 to 812 GW by 2050 within the net zero emissions (NZE) paradigm. The global energy landscape is undergoing significant transformation as nations strive to transition to more sustainable energy systems. Amidst this shift, nuclear power has emerged as a crucial component in the pursuit of a sustainable energy transition. This study examines nuclear power's multifaceted role in shaping sustainable energy transition. It delves into nuclear energy's contributions toward decarbonization efforts, highlighting its capacity to provide low-carbon electricity and its potential role in mitigating climate change. Furthermore, the study explores the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating nuclear power into energy transition strategies, addressing issues such as safety, waste management, and public perception. In conclusion, the global nuclear power capacity is anticipated to reach approximately 530 GW by 2050, representing a substantial shortfall of 35% compared with the trajectory outlined in the NZE pathway. Under the NZE scenario, nuclear power demonstrates exceptional expansion, nearly doubling from 413 GW in early 2022 to 812 GW by 2050. Concurrently, the trajectory highlights a transformative shift in renewable energy investments, with annual expenditures surging from an average of US$325 billion during 2016–2020 to an impressive US$1.3 trillion between 2031 and 2035. These projections underscore the critical role of nuclear and renewable energy investments in achieving global sustainability and emission reduction goals.
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DOI: 10.1177/01445987251314504
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