UN crowns nuclear as lowest carbon electricity source.
Nuclear power produces less CO2 emissions over its lifecycle than any other electricity source, according to a new report by United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE).
The commission found nuclear power has the lowest carbon footprint measured in grams of CO2 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), compared to any rival electricity sources – including wind, solar, gas and coal.
It also revealed nuclear has the lowest lifecycle land use, as well as the lowest lifecycle mineral and metal requirements of all the clean technologies.
While nuclear and renewables are zero-carbon at generation point, every electricity source produces CO2 at various stages, including construction, operation and decommissioning.
This would mean the two projects would have the lowest carbon intensity and highest clean energy output of any plant constructed in British history.
Nuclear’s sustainability makes the energy source an attractive tool for the UK as it aims achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. »
