What is Nuclear Energy?

Created by Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI)

What Is Nuclear Energy?

An energy source that has zero emissions, provides electricity around-the-clock and propels our society into the future? It’s not new. It’s now. It’s nuclear.

Nuclear Energy Is Extraordinary

Nuclear energy comes from splitting atoms in a reactor to heat water into steam, turn a turbine and generate electricity. Ninety-three nuclear reactors in 28 states generate nearly 20 percent of the nation’s electricity, all without carbon emissions because reactors use uranium, not fossil fuels. These plants are always on: well-operated to avoid interruptions and built to withstand extreme weather, supporting the grid 24/7.

All that power and potential from a tiny atom.

Benefits of Nuclear Energy

Nuclear energy offers many advantages as the emissions-free workhorse of our energy grid. Its unique value cannot be found in any other energy source.

• Nuclear protects national security. U.S. leadership in nuclear energy maintains safety and nonproliferation standards globally, supports a resilient electrical grid at home, and fuels a strong navy.
• Nuclear fights climate change. Nuclear energy provides large amounts of 24/7 carbon-free electricity now, which is irreplaceable in protecting the environment.
• Nuclear ensures U.S. leadership in technology. The United States pioneered nuclear energy for the world and, with continued leadership, can respond to growing clean energy demand worldwide with advanced reactors.
• Nuclear produces electricity reliably. Around-the-clock electricity is a must for our nation to prosper in the 21st century. Clean, reliable nuclear energy is a critical part of U.S. infrastructure because it runs nonstop for 18–24 months at a time.
• Nuclear generates jobs. Nuclear energy provides more than 100,000 well-paid, long-term jobs and supports local economies with millions of dollars in state and local tax revenues.
• Nuclear protects our air. Nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide, particulate matter and mercury: all things you don’t want in the air you breathe. Nuclear energy provides power 24/7 without a trace of those pollutants.
• Nuclear boosts international development. Nuclear energy helps developing nations meet sustainable development goals.
• Nuclear powers electric vehicles. Electrified transportation promises to reduce carbon emissions. When powered by carbon-free nuclear energy, electric vehicles can reach their full potential.

Nuclear Energy Provides More Than Electricity

The benefits of nuclear energy extend far beyond carbon-free electricity too. Nuclear powers space exploration, sterilizes medical equipment, provides potable water through desalination, supplies radioisotopes for cancer treatment and much more.