Hello everyone!
This is my third blog post, and I’m excited to continue with my inquiry. My question is:
“How sustainable is nuclear energy as a source of power in Kenya, considering environmental and economic factors?”
My First Round of Research: What is the Cost of Nuclear Energy?
From what I have learned so far, nuclear energy might be one of the best long-term sources of power. It uses nuclear fission, which can produce a large amount of energy to support industries. It is also said to be safe, reliable, and economical if handled well (Brook, 2014).
One of the main reasons why nuclear energy is being considered is that it can help reduce harmful gases like carbon dioxide and methane that come from burning fossil fuels. These gases are the main cause of climate change (Brook, 2014).
Although we have renewable energy sources like solar and wind, it is difficult for them to produce the huge amounts of energy needed for factories and cities in a steady and affordable way. On the other hand, nuclear power plants can work all day and night without being affected by weather.
In industries, energy use is usually divided into three parts:
- Electricity for machines and lighting
- Heat used in making products (like in cement or steel factories)
- Energy for transport (like fuel for trucks and trains)
Currently, nuclear energy is mostly used to produce electricity. But with the right technology, it could also help in other areas.
Some experts also suggest that countries using nuclear energy should not be charged extra for grid connections, especially those that produce stable power, unlike some renewable sources which can be unstable.
Building and running nuclear power stations requires many skilled workers such as engineers, scientists, and technicians. If Kenya invests in nuclear power, it can create new job opportunities and improve the skills of young people through training programs. For instance, Kenya plans to start building its first nuclear power plant in 2027, aiming for completion by 2034. This initiative is part of the country’s strategy to enhance energy capacity and promote sustainable development. The project is expected to create numerous jobs and stimulate economic growth (The Electricity Hub, 2024).
Sources I Used:
- Brook, B. W. (2014). Why nuclear energy is sustainable and has to be part of the mix.
ScienceDirect Article - The Electricity Hub. (2024). Kenya to Start Construction of First Nuclear Plant in 2027.
https://theelectricityhub.com/kenya-will-begin-building-its-first-nuclear-power-plant-in-2027-aiming-for-completion-by-2034-to-boost-energy-capacity-and-reduce-carbon-emissions/ - International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). (2020). Nuclear power and sustainable development.
https://www.iaea.org/publications/13577/nuclear-power-and-sustainable-development
In my opinion, nuclear energy sounds promising. But I still need to find out if it’s affordable for Kenya, if it’s safe for our environment, and how it compares to solar, wind, and geothermal power.
Hello Ian, I hope that you are fine doing great. Your blog post is really interesting and i have learnt a lot about nuclear energy
Hi , it is very interesting to and enjoyable to read your round one of research .Having to find out the importance of nuclear energy and its possible effects to the environment.
Hello! Ian. That sounds like a really important topic there is so much nuance to the costs, especially when factoring in long-term waste management.
Hi Ian, this is interesting research. This shows your curiosity about nuclear energy . It’s an assurance that you are going to excel in your research, continue pressing on and aiming high. Thankyou.
Hello Ian I am glad glad to interact with you in your round of research 1. Your topic of research is very educative. For this time i had this for you hoping it is going to help you:
https://www.synapse-energy.com/sites/default/files/SynapsePaper.2008-07.0.Nuclear-Plant-Construction-Costs.A0022_0.pdf