Unlocking Nigeria's Energy Potential: Proposing Nuclear Energy Integration Amid Subsidy Removal Challenges

by - Plogging Club on - August 22, 2023

Nigeria is currently facing the pressing challenge of subsidy removal in the energy sector, prompting the need for exploring viable and sustainable energy alternatives. In this article, we propose the integration of nuclear energy into Nigeria's power generation portfolio, highlighting its potential to address energy security, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and create a cleaner and more reliable energy future.

First, what is Nuclear Energy?

Nuclear energy is the energy stored in an atom's nucleus; it can be obtained through two types of reactions: fission and fusion. Nuclear energy is produced from uranium, a nonrenewable energy source whose atoms are split (through a process called nuclear fission) to create heat and, eventually, electricity.

Nuclear Powerplant (source: istock.com)

Nuclear fission generates energy by splitting heavier atoms into lighter ones, which releases heat energy, which may then be utilized to power a turbine to generate electricity. All of today's nuclear power reactors generate electricity through fission, uranium is the most widely used fuel for fission.

Nuclear Fusion power promises a nearly limitless source of energy for future generations; nevertheless, achieving the conditions for nuclear fusion poses a possibly overwhelming technical and engineering barrier.

Subsidies removed from petroleum can be invested in Nuclear energy because;

Nuclear power accounts for about 10% of electricity generation globally, rising to almost 20% in advanced economies, and contributes significantly to power sector decarbonization.
Creates jobs

Nuclear plants can employ up to 700 workers with salaries that are 30% higher than the local average.

Nuclear power reactors do not produce direct carbon dioxide emissions

Unlike fossil fuel-fired power plants, nuclear reactors do not produce air pollution or carbon dioxide while operating.

If Nuclear Energy is adopted, below are some of the possible outcomes and success forecasts;

Cheap to Operate

Nuclear power is an economical way to produce electricity due to the one-time expenses associated with constructing a nuclear power plant and it is a reliable and cost-effective source of energy.

High Energy Density

Nuclear fission is incredibly efficient, providing almost 8,000 times more energy than traditional fossil fuels and generating less waste.

Diversification of Energy Sources

Introducing nuclear energy would diversify the energy mix and reduce the country's dependence on finite fossil fuels.

Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Nuclear power does not emit greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide during electricity generation, unlike fossil fuels. By shifting to nuclear energy, Nigeria could significantly reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to global efforts to combat climate change.

However, Nuclear energy is a non-renewable energy with limitations. Some of these limitations include:

High Initial Costs

Building and maintaining nuclear power plants involve substantial upfront capital costs.

Safety Concerns

Ensuring the highest safety standards and comprehensive emergency preparedness would be crucial to address public concerns and prevent accidents.

Waste Management

Management of Radioactive waste generated from nuclear energy is a complex issue.

Timeframe and Project Delays

Developing nuclear power projects can take many years, from planning and licensing to construction and commissioning which could hinder timely implementation

Some sustainability plans for Nuclear Energy include:

Nuclear power is presently a sustainable energy source but could become completely renewable if the source of uranium changed from mined ore to seawater.
Nuclear energy can be sustainable by expanding its use, modern and affordable energy can be provided to all who currently lack access, whilst reducing the human impact on the natural environment

Energy is sustainable if it meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs

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