THE SCIENCE
The untapped potential of nuclear energy
Discover the science behind nuclear energy and why it should be included in our energy mix.
Pivotal moments in nuclear science
The nuclear industry has continually advanced over time.
These developments not only fuel our carbon free energy needs but also other fields like health (cancer therapies), agriculture and space research.
Did you know?
- For the past 60 years, Australia has operated a reactor at Lucas Heights in New South Wales, managed by ANSTO (Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation).
- Nuclear benefits go beyond electricity generation. The Australian Navy is acquiring nuclear submarines, and every Australian is likely to benefit from nuclear medicine in their lifetime.
- In Australia, we already have nuclear infrastructure including a regulatory body, a security and non-proliferation agency and a nuclear waste management agency.
To achieve climate targets we need a balanced energy mix
Nuclear energy is clean energy. Introducing nuclear power to Australia would help reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change.
Our energy
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Fossil Fuel Energy
We get 65% of our electricity from fossil fuels. Exploring all technologies is important for reducing emissions and our future energy security.
Renewable Energy
Wind, solar, and hydro provide 35% of our energy. They’re clean and plentiful, but their output can be unpredictable and dependent on weather conditions.
Nuclear Energy
Nuclear power generates zero emissions and delivers a continuous, reliable energy supply. It could be a game-changer for Australia’s sustainable future, but right now, it’s banned.
Did you know?
Nuclear power produces 70% of France’s electricity, making it one of the most carbon-free electricity grids in Europe.
Nuclear and renewables. It’s the winning combination
Reaching net zero emissions by 2050 is a big and complex goal. So far, no modern country with a large economy has been able to clean up its energy grid without using a lot of nuclear power, hydropower, or both.
Currently, Australia is the only large industrialised country attempting to achieve net zero with an energy system composed almost exclusively of solar, wind and battery storage (and a little bit of hydro).
To move away from fossil fuels, most modern economies choose to combine renewable energy with nuclear power.
Is nuclear energy safe? Yes, it is
When you compare the safety records of different energy sources, nuclear energy consistently ranks as one of the safest.
With rigorous safety standards and advanced technology, nuclear power is both reliable and safe.
Putting things into perspective
Over the past 60 years, there have been three major accidents that have raised concerns about nuclear energy: Three Mile Island, Chernobyl, and Fukushima Daiichi.
Each incident had specific causes, such as design flaws, lack of safety measures, and natural disasters testing containment systems.
While these events were tragic, they led to major advancements in nuclear safety. Today’s modern nuclear plants are designed with advanced technology and safety protocols that could prevent such accidents from happening again.
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Modern safety measures manage the risks
With strict safety standards and cutting-edge technology, nuclear power has become one of the safest energy sources. New designs feature multiple safety layers for protection at every level.
Is nuclear technology outdated? Absolutely not
Nuclear technology continues to see revolutionary advancements in safety, efficiency and fuel recycling. The development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and microreactors is a game-changer.
Beyond generating electricity, nuclear sciences support medicine, agriculture, environmental protection, and even archaeology.
Smaller, safer, more flexible nuclear reactors
Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Micro Modular Reactors (MMRs) are at the cutting edge of nuclear innovation.
These compact reactors are designed to be more flexible and can be quickly deployed, making them perfect for a wide range of uses.
SMRs can power large industries and smaller energy grids, while MMRs are ideal for remote areas and off-grid locations.
With modular designs, they’re built to be cost-effective and can be assembled faster than traditional reactors.
Maximising efficiency, minimising waste
Over 90% of spent nuclear fuel can be recycled to produce new fuel and by-products.
Nuclear waste technologies have significantly advanced. Innovations including improved waste containment materials and enhanced monitoring systems to ensure waste is securely stored.
Nuclear is transforming more than just energy
Nuclear technology has transformed medicine, especially in diagnostics and cancer treatments.
In agriculture, it’s advancing farming techniques and enhancing food preservation.
Nuclear science also plays a crucial role in environmental protection, helping us understand ocean acidification and pollution.
A brighter future requires a balanced energy policy
While the world increasingly adopts nuclear, outdated regulations ban nuclear energy in Australia. The facts on today’s nuclear energy speak for themselves.
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It's Safe
It’s a safer form of energy thanks to new technology.
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It's Clean
It’s cleaner energy, with zero carbon emissions.
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It's Reliable
It’s more reliable - nuclear plants can produce energy, 24/7.
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It's Smart
It’s smarter for our economy - over the long-term nuclear delivers cheap and clean energy.
Out of the world’s largest 20 economies, Australia is the only country excluding nuclear energy
Australia is arguably the best prepared and most capable for a civilian nuclear industry infrastructure due to its existing regulatory body, a security and non-proliferation agency and a nuclear waste management agency.