The Role of Nuclear in the Sustainable Energy Transition

<p dir="ltr">Recently, nuclear power has been seriously considered a viable option capable of offering a reliable, low-carbon energy source that can efficiently complement intermittent renewable energy technologies. This chapter provides insights into advancements in nuclear technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs), Generation IV reactors, and nuclear fusion, and explores the critical role nuclear energy could play in the global transition to sustainable energy systems. Adequate information is presented to highlight the potential of nuclear energy to provide continuous baseload power and its role in decarbonising hard-to-electrify sectors. Special attention is given to recent concepts like integration of nuclear energy with renewable energy technologies, development of hybrid nuclear-renewable systems, and the potential role of nuclear-based hydrogen production through high-temperature electrolysis. The chapter identifies key challenges negatively influencing the adoption of nuclear energy and concludes by examining projections of nuclear energy in the global energy mix.</p>