AUSTRALIA will be forced to use nuclear power to meet its carbon reduction targets, according to industry experts.
Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO) chairman, Ziggy Switkowski, says even with a rapid development of renewable energy and the successful rollout of carbon capture technology, nuclear power has to be considered if Australia is to meet its targets.
“80% of electricity that must be available round the clock includes the use of coal, gas, oil, hydroelectricity and nuclear energy… If fossil fuels are excluded, then the only presently available clean option for base-load electricity is nuclear power,” he said.
Switkowski says significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions would almost certainly prove beyond the capability of existing technologies, while renewable energy platforms would fail to deliver the cuts in the time allowed.
Experts believe nuclear-powered economies will deliver cost advantages for clean energy, and boost Australia’s economy by keeping the nation competitive on the international market.
Nuclear power currently generates 15% of the world’s electricity in 31 countries, and is expected to expand to 50 countries by 2020.
"An increasing number of countries are turning to nuclear power to meet growing demand for energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and diversify their energy mix from a single platform or dominant fuel supplier," Dr Switkowski said.
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