Developments in Nuclear Energy Power Plants-A Review

Abstract

The paper posits that nuclear energy is energy from the nucleus of atoms that binds neutrons and
protons together and can be released by bombardment and can be exploited for electricity
generation. The paper reviews literature on nuclear power plants and positions it as a viable
substitute for replacing fossil fuel generation in order to avoid and avert emission of greenhouse
gases which results in global warming and consequent climate change. The paper defines nuclear
power and describes how nuclear power stations operate.
The paper also describes the disadvantages and advantages of nuclear electricity generation. It
compares nuclear power plants with fossil, solar and wind power plants. The paper says current
nuclear power plants are mainly based on nuclear fission as nuclear fusion is still in experimental
stage. Nuclear fission particularly of uranium-235 is a mature technology. If successful, nuclear
fusion will provide electricity for thousands of years as nuclear fusion material are plenty whereas
nuclear fission material is scarce, depletable and estimated to continue to last for the next 50 years
only. The paper posits that nuclear power stations need less geographical space than solar or wind
energy power stations per given MW output.
The paper concludes by recommending nuclear power stations for countries like Zimbabwe with
energy shortfalls.