Nuclear Facts

Nuclear Energy supplies 16% of the world's power,

  • 20% of UK power,
  • 50% of Scotland's power

There are approximately 441 operating nuclear power stations in the world

  • Around 32 new plants are under construction
  • 230 new plants are at planning/approval stages

Nuclear power is virtually carbon free.

The nuclear industry has an excellent safety record.

Nuclear power cost is competitive with gas and cheaper than coal, wind and marine power.

Radioactive waste has been stored safely in the UK for over 50 years.

There are 40,000 UK jobs directly associated with the Nuclear Industry, plus 80,000 indirect jobs.

The Big Issues

"The White Paper" - March 2006

  • Need clear message to encourage investment
  • We need a stable, long term Carbon Pricing and trading scheme across Europe/World

Nuclear Waste Site Selection process must lead to suitable site/community volunteers coming forward

  • Profile perception must continue positive trend
  • UK market must be made sufficiently attractive for investors and international Nuclear system vender's
  • Greenpeace is putting our energy future and CO2 reduction at risk, after recently successfully convincing the courts that the decision to back a new generation of power stations was unlawful, because of a "seriously flawed" public consultation process.

 All material © NI YGN unless otherwise stated