How Does Nuclear Power Work and Why Is The UK Investing

In the UK, where the government is investing billions in new nuclear plants like Sizewell C and Hinkley Point C, nuclear power is currently a hot topic. However, what is the real mechanism of nuclear energy? And why is it a hot bet in the UK? Let’s put it in plain language.

How Does Nuclear Power Work?

Nuclear fission, the process of splitting atoms, is the fundamental (pun intended!) source of nuclear power. This is the step-by-step process:

1. Fuel Source – Uranium:

Nuclear fission is the process by which uranium-235 (or related isotopes) in fuel rods splits when hit by neutrons, producing heat and additional neutrons in a series of events.

2.Splitting Atoms (Fission)

• A uranium atom breaks when struck by a neutron, releasing an enormous amount of heat energy and more neutrons.
• These new neutrons hit other uranium atoms, creating a chain reaction that keeps producing heat.

3.Heat Transfer & Steam Generation:

In order to convert water into steam and keep radiation contained in the primary loop, the reactor core warms coolant, which is usually pressurized water.

4.Power Generation:

In a process similar to that of traditional thermal plants, but without the use of fuels, the steam powers turbines that are connected to generators to produce electricity.

5.Cooling & Safety:

• To keep radiation inside, the reactor is surrounded by high concrete walls.
• Used fuel is recycled or stored safely because it remains radioactive.

Why the UK Is Investing in Nuclear Energy:

The UK is spending £14 billion on Sizewell C and backing other nuclear projects. Here’s why:

1.Energy Security & Reliability:

Baseload, low-carbon power is continuously provided by nuclear. Around 14–16% of the UK’s electricity now comes from nuclear power, and many reactors are scheduled to retire by 2030, resulting in an impending supply shortage.

To provide energy stability and protect consumers from price swings of fossil fuels, the government plans to increase nuclear capacity to 24 GW (about 25% of electricity) by 2050.

2.Decarbonisation Commitments:

By 2050, the electrically powered operation of heavy industry, travel, and heating is predicted to cause a significant increase in the UK’s electricity demand. Nuclear provides dependable, low-carbon power that is essential for achieving net-zero goals and combining with advanced fuel production, district heating, and hydrogen.

3.Cheaper Bills in the Long Run:

Although they are costly to construct, nuclear power plants offer affordable, reliable electricity for more than 60 years.In addition Sizewell C could save £2 billion a year in energy costs.

4.Jobs & Economic Growth:

• 10,000+ jobs will be provided during Sizewell C’s construction. Additionally, the UK wants to be a leader in the new, cheaper nuclear technology known as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

5.Skills & Industrial Strategy:

The government has committed £763 million to nuclear skills development, supporting 40,000 jobs in the civil and defense nuclear sectors and training over 8,000 apprenticeships.

What’s Next for UK Nuclear?

The UK’s nuclear plans include:

• Sizewell C – A £38 billion plant powering 6 million homes (starting mid-2030s)
• Another large reactor, Hinkley Point C, is scheduled to open in 2031.
• Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): Rolls-Royce’s smaller, faster reactors.

Nuclear power provides a unique combination of industrial potential, low-carbon credentials, and baseload reliability. With the help of large projects like Sizewell C, Hinkley Point C, and next-generation reactors, the UK’s ambitious strategy seeks to close anticipated capacity shortages, reduce energy costs, create jobs, and establish the country as a leader in clean energy innovation worldwide.

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