The Role of Nuclear Power in Energy Reliability: U.S. & International Perspectives

One of the fundamental advantages of nuclear power is its peerless reliability—U.S. nuclear plants have consistently operated at above 90% capacity factor on average over the last several years, and are highly resilient to supply disruptions, weather phenomena, etc. The imperative for nuclear is even more evident in areas of high urban concentrations and industrial development, where the need for dense sources of reliable energy is even greater. As a result, the drivers for the “nuclear renaissance” are quickly shifting towards the developing economies throughout Asia, where issues of exploding urban populations, rapid industrialization, and energy security are paramount.