08/23/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 08/23/2024 11:10
The World Nuclear Association's annual World Nuclear Performance Report provides up-to-date details about the nuclear power sector for both existing nuclear electricity generators and reactors under construction.
Average capacity factor of nuclear reactors increased by 1 percent-reaching 81.5 percent-last year. The report, published on August 20, shows that nuclear generation increased by 58 terawatt-hours in 2023, providing 2,602 TWh, or 9 percent, of the world's electricity production.
The five reactors that shut down last year were matched by five new ones connecting to the grid.
Quotable: "The global nuclear reactor fleet has a proven track record of excellent performance. It is now time to build on that track record and significantly accelerate the pace of new nuclear construction," Sama Bilbao y Leon, director general of the World Nuclear Association, concludes in the report.
"Today, there are 64 reactors under construction around the world, with many more planned and proposed in both new and established nuclear countries. The industry is set for a major expansion, and we can expect more governments and companies to sign the declaration to triple global nuclear energy capacity. Additionally, we anticipate increased collaboration with other industries," she continued.
Mohamed Al Hammadi, WNA's chair and managing director of Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation, said, "With both nuclear energy generation and capacity factor rising in 2023, it is clear that nuclear energy is a proven, reliable, and substantial generator of clean electricity for 36 countries today. . . . Now, further optimizing the performance of reactors; extending the safe, reliable, and long-term operation of all units; as well as deploying new units are crucial steps in the reemergence of civil nuclear energy in the race to net-zero power."
Highlights from the report:
A closer look: The 2023 report noted growing policy support for nuclear, with increased momentum seen again in this latest report.
"Governments are increasingly creating supportive policy environments to advance nuclear development for both small and large plants with a range of applications," Bilboa y Leon said. "Nuclear technologies will have a broader role than traditional grid electricity supply. There is increasing interest from end energy users such as data centers, which have high electricity requirements, and industrial producers that require heat for chemical and material production applications or desalination. This offers the potential to decarbonize the wider economy, especially hard-to-abate sectors."