As of September 2024, a total of 415 nuclear reactors were in operation around the globe. Europe accounted for the largest number of reactors at the time, with 167 units. Asia followed, with 126 operational reactors, and the US with 93.[1]
Is Resurrecting Three Mile Island a Viable Choice?[i]
The resurgence of interest in nuclear energy, particularly among tech companies seeking sustainable power sources for data centers, prompts a reevaluation of nuclear plants like Three Mile Island (TMI) in Pennsylvania. This facility, notorious for the 1979 partial meltdown, has recently garnered attention as Microsoft plans to purchase energy from it. Similarly, other closed nuclear reactors in the U.S. are being considered for restart due to increasing energy demands, exacerbated by the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.
The Energy Demand Surge
By 2027, AI is projected to consume energy equivalent to that of Sweden. This surge in demand is part of a broader trend that includes the electrification of transportation and the adoption of clean energy technologies in buildings. As companies face mounting energy requirements, some are reconsidering nuclear power, which, unlike fossil fuels, does not emit greenhouse gases during operation. The Biden administration supports this shift, aiming to increase nuclear energy production as part of climate mitigation strategies.
Assessing the Risks of Nuclear Energy
Despite its low emissions, nuclear energy presents significant risks. The historical legacy of nuclear accidents, such as Fukushima, highlights the potential dangers associated with aging reactors and the uncertain nature of probabilistic risk assessments. The ongoing challenge of managing radioactive waste, which remains hazardous for millennia, complicates the case for nuclear energy. Critics argue that reliance on nuclear power may divert attention and resources away from advancing renewable energy solutions, such as solar and wind.
Safety Concerns and Regulatory Challenges
Safety inspections by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission will be crucial before any decommissioned plant can restart. Recent evidence of corrosion at a Michigan plant (Palisades), emphasizes the aging infrastructure's vulnerability. Moreover, the regulatory landscape may face pressure to expedite approvals in light of urgent energy demands, potentially compromising safety standards.
The Case for Renewable Energy
While some proponents advocate for advanced nuclear technologies, recent analyses question their efficiency and safety. Newer reactors may not necessarily address the waste problem effectively, and alternative energy sources such as solar, wind, and geothermal present a more sustainable path forward. These technologies are not only scalable but also offer safety and cost advantages over nuclear energy.
Conclusion: Long Run vs. Short Run
In economics, the long run and short run differ in how easily resources can be adjusted. In the short run, factors are fixed, while in the long run, all factors—such as changing energy sources or plant size—can be modified. In a competitive market, organizations can adjust their plant size over the long run to respond to changes in demand and prices.The possibility of restarting facilities like Three Mile Island or Palisades prompts critical reflections on the future of energy in an increasingly climate-conscious world. While nuclear power could serve as a short-term remedy to rising energy demands, its long-term sustainability remains questionable in light of the growing potential of renewable energy sources. To create a resilient and environmentally responsible energy infrastructure, we must consider adopting a balanced approach that thoughtfully assesses the risks and benefits of nuclear energy alongside sustainable alternatives. By prioritizing a diverse energy portfolio, we may ensure a more secure and sustainable future for generations to come.
[1] Operational nuclear reactors worldwide 2024 | Statista October 8, 2024, 2:01 pm, PST.
[i] https://www.commonwealthfoundation.org/
Other sources:
Is restarting Three Mile Island really a good idea? (msn.com)
https://www.fastcompany.com/91204023/is-restarting-three-mile-island-really-a-good-idea