21st Century Energy Solution

International interest in uranium and nuclear energy is growing. Countries which currently use nuclear energy are expanding and upgrading their nuclear industries. Many countries that have not used nuclear power are looking to do so.

Many countries face a complex set of energy problems. They are asking, how can we meet increasing demand for stable, constant electricity supply that is climate friendly, non-polluting, relatively low cost and available now?

Uranium-fuelled nuclear power provides a ready solution.

Nuclear power stations are operating in 31 countries and have been doing so safely and reliably for many decades.

Across its lifecycle (uranium mining, processing shipping; uranium fuel manufacture; nuclear power generation; plant decommissioning; waste management and disposal) nuclear power is a low-carbon energy source.

Nuclear power stations emit no carbon dioxide in producing electricity. They do not add to air pollution. The lifecycle emissions of nuclear energy are much less than coal and gas powered electricity. It has lower carbon emissions than solar thermal and solar photovoltaic power. It is about on a par with wind and hydro power.

Despite its environmental benefits, nuclear power (and uranium mining) raise doubts in some people's minds. Radiation and  the management of radioactive waste trouble many people. Others worry about the potential spread of nuclear weapons. And yet others are preoccupied by past failings in management and safety practices and by accidents.

Organisations involved in the nuclear fuel cycle must respond to increasing pressure to manage flawlessly; behave responsibly; operate safely and communicate transparently.

Australia’s uranium industry is trying always to improve its performance; always learning and always striving to reassure the community.

We are acknowledging people’s concerns and asking how we should address them.
We’re contributing where we can to the effort against nuclear weapons proliferation.

We encourage the development of effective waste management solutions.

In all these areas, the Australian uranium industry seeks to apply the highest standards and demonstrate exemplary behaviour. All  to support our claim that uranium-fuelled nuclear energy is a permanent and sustainable element in world's energy portfolio for the twenty first century.