7 Graphs that Show the True Value of Nuclear Energy

Nuclear is the leading cost-efficient and clean baseload energy source.

Hana Chabinsky

Nuclear stands as the leading cost-efficient and clean baseload energy source, outperforming both wind and solar in ‘full system’ costs. Its pivotal role in bolstering energy security and promoting sustainability sets the stage for an era of significant growth in nuclear power.

Increasingly, global policymakers are recognizing nuclear energy as a crucial player in achieving decarbonization objectives. With Europe expected to miss its 2030 CO2 reduction targets by nearly a billion tons, authoritative bodies like the IEA and the UN are increasingly incorporating nuclear solutions in their strategies for a net-zero future.

Amidst the commitments at COP28, where world leaders are rallying behind a threefold increase in nuclear energy by 2050, here are seven insightful charts that show the true value of nuclear power.

Energy Efficient 

Capacity Factor by Energy Source

Reliable 

Energy Output for Each Power Source Relative to Weekly Average

Cost-Efficient 

Cost of Generation, Different Sources ($/MWh)
LCOE & LFSCOE Calculations by Energy Source

Highest Energy Return on Investment

Highest Energy Return on Investment, by Source

Supports Carbon-Free Goals

Lifecycle Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emission by Electricity Source
Materials Required for Construction by Energy Source (Tons per TWh)

Smaller Size, Same Value

Small and micro modular nuclear power plants, with their promise of rapid deployment and manageable costs, have emerged as the next generation of nuclear and an essential contributor to the climate and energy solution. 

These innovative systems offer the capability to provide reliable, carbon-free baseload power through a compact design, which is 100 to 1,000 times smaller than conventional nuclear plants. This compact size not only ensures efficiency but also demands significantly fewer resources during construction compared to other alternative energy sources. 

Last Energy’s Added Value

Last Energy’s micro modular power plant, the PWR-20, is a fully modular, factory-fabricated plant with a physical footprint of just 0.3 acres. It does not require concrete or access to a water source. Costing under $100 million, manufactured in 20 months, and assembled on-site in just four months, the PWR-20 checks all the boxes for fast, economical deployment.