The environmental pros and cons of nuclear energy
Nuclear power plants generate nearly 20% of U.S. energy. This carbon-free form of energy doesn't contribute to global warming like carbon-emitting fossil fuels, but it is not without its environmental impact.
How does nuclear power produce carbon-free energy?
In short, nuclear power plants split uranium atoms to create steam and run turbines.
Step 1: Uranium is mined and processed into small ceramic fuel pellets.
Step 2: The fuel pellets are placed in fuel rods, which are set in the reactor core and surrounded by water.
Step 3: Neutrons are introduced to the uranium particles in the fuel rods, creating a chain reaction of splitting its atoms.
Step 4: These split atoms release energy that heats the reactor water, which creates steam. The steam turns turbines that create electricity.
The United States remains reliant on fossil fuels. 60% of U.S. energy production comes from power plants that burn fossil fuels such as oil, coal and natural gas. Unlike nuclear energy, these forms create carbon-based emissions that directly contribute to global warming.
Mining uranium disrupts the environment and isn't renewable.
Uranium is also radioactive and spent fuel rods must be safely stored.
However, nuclear energy does negatively impact the environment
Unlike wind and solar energy, uranium is mined and isn’t a renewable resource.
Mining uranium causes environmental harm to mining locations.
Nuclear offers an alternative to carbon-emitting fossil fuels
2023 U.S. energy market share
The great lakes region now must now weigh these pros and cons as officials consider their nuclear power usage.
Fuel pellet
Fuel rods
Water
Reactor core
Neutrons
Steam
Turbine
Electrcity
Source: U.S. Department of Energy
Uranium
In short, nuclear power plants split uranium atoms to create steam and run turbines.
Reactor core
18.6%
Nuclear
18.6%
Nuclear
18.6%
Nuclear
Note: Chart excluded pumped storage hydroelectricity generation. This form of energy uses more electricity than it currently generates resulting in a negative share of energy use of -0.1%.