Nuclear Energy refers to the energy stored in the nucleus of atoms (e.g. Uranium atom), which is released through a nuclear reaction such as fission (splitting of atoms) or Fusion (combining of atoms). In contrast, Nuclear Power refers to using nuclear energy to generate electricity. The process involves using the heat from nuclear reactions to produce steam, which drives turbines to generate electricity.
Ghana needs nuclear power to diversify its energy mix, reduce dependency on fossil fuels, provide reliable and affordable power to drive industrial and economic ambitions, and meet rising electricity demand sustainably. Nuclear power provides a stable, low-carbon base-load energy source.
While Ghana has abundant sunshine and significant potential for solar power, nuclear energy should remain an essential part of the country’s energy strategy. Although a promising renewable source, solar power is intermittent and dependent on weather conditions, making it less reliable for providing continuous, stable electricity, especially during periods of cloud cover or at night. On the other hand, nuclear energy can provide a consistent and reliable supply of electricity 24/7, offering a stable base load power generation to complement intermittent renewable sources like solar. Also, nuclear energy can help diversify Ghana’s energy mix, reducing the country’s dependence on fossil fuels and enhancing energy security.
No, nuclear energy is not considered renewable because it relies on finite resources like uranium. It is, however, a sustainable low-carbon energy source because there is enough uranium in the world to power nuclear reactors. Once loaded, the fuel can run continuously for 18 months before shutdown for routine maintenance to replace one-third of the fuel.
A single pellet of uranium fuel contains a remarkable amount of energy compared to fossil fuels. To produce the same amount of energy a single pellet of uranium fuel (6g) produces, you would need about 17,000 cubic ft. of natural gas, or 120 gallons of oil, or 1 ton of coal.
- A Nuclear Reactor is a device or a system in which a controlled nuclear fission chain reaction occurs. In contrast, a Nuclear Power Plant is a facility that houses one or more nuclear reactors and all additional infrastructure required to convert nuclear energy to nuclear power.
- Nuclear reactors can be classified based on their functions, such as research, power, and material testing. These reactors can be of various types, including pressurised water reactors (PWRs), boiling water reactors (BWRs), and advanced reactors like the sodium-cooled fast reactor (SFR) and high-temperature gas reactors (HTGRs). They differ in fuel types, coolant systems, and operational temperatures.
Nuclear power generates energy by splitting atoms, releasing a large amount of energy with minimal emissions. Unlike fossil fuels, nuclear power does not produce carbon emissions, making it environmentally friendly.
Nuclear power is one of the safest energy sources, with far fewer fatalities per unit of energy generated compared to fossil fuels and even some renewable sources. While only three accidents; Chernobyl, Three Mile Island and Fukushima have drawn attention, the overall impact of nuclear incidents is relatively low when considering energy production history and stringent safety measures. In comparison, coal and oil contribute to thousands of annual deaths due to air pollution and mining accidents, while hydroelectric dams have caused rare but catastrophic failures. Nuclear energy’s rigorous safety protocols and low emissions make it a dependable, reliable and comparatively safe energy option.
Most nuclear waste (about 90%) still contains useful material, including fissile material that can be recycled as fuel for reactors. This waste is initially stored securely onsite in durable containers. Over time, some of it may be transported to special facilities for further recycling and long-term storage, ensuring safe handling and reducing the amount of waste needing permanent disposal.
Yes, nuclear energy is one of the safest sources of electricity generation. Strict regulations and safety protocols are in place to protect people and the environment from radiation exposure and other risks.
While Ghana has abundant sunshine and significant potential for solar power, nuclear energy should remain an essential part of the country’s energy strategy. Although a promising renewable source, solar power is intermittent and dependent on weather conditions, making it less reliable for providing continuous, stable electricity, especially during periods of cloud cover or at night. On the other hand, nuclear energy can provide a consistent and reliable supply of electricity 24/7, offering a stable base load power generation to complement intermittent renewable sources like solar. Also, nuclear energy can help diversify Ghana’s energy mix, reducing the country’s dependence on fossil fuels and enhancing energy security.