What assessment has the Minister made of the benefits of nuclear energy for achieving net zero targets?
I would agree in principle that the adoption of nuclear energy has the potential to provide benefits in helping achieve net zero.
There is a question, however, about how much nuclear energy will be realistically deployed before 2035, the date by which the UK Government proposes the (mostly reserved) power sector is decarbonised. This target will likely rely on other forms of renewable energy, while the role for nuclear energy, particularly in Wales where there are no projects currently proposed, is something for the longer-term energy mix to 2050.
There is also a need to not only consider the emissions in operation but also lifecycle carbon emissions - this requires a planned energy system to ensure efficiency in financial and carbon terms. These are fundamental considerations when considering nuclear’s role in helping to attain net zero.