ERA’s production is exported and sold under strict guidelines to nuclear power producers.
A study by the International Atomic Energy Agency, found that the world’s 444 operating nuclear power plants, across 31 countries, are now responsible for the supply of 11 per cent of global electricity.
Major cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, Toronto, Paris, Moscow and Seoul are run on nuclear generated electricity.
The Australian government has recently signed trade agreements with the United Arab Emirates, India and Ukraine, three countries which are interested in securing future supply for their own burgeoning nuclear power generation programmes. This demonstrates the increased interest in the low carbon electricity generation capability that nuclear power provides.
The tide is definitely turning with regard to sentiment around nuclear energy. What was once a much maligned source of energy has now become an important contributor in the global effort to combat climate change, because of its low carbon emissions.
While the image and use of nuclear power was badly impacted following the tsunami in Japan in 2011, with the consequent impact on the Fukushima power station, it remains one of the most efficient, cheap and carbon friendly forms of large scale energy generation today.
Currently there are 64 nuclear reactors under construction in 15 countries. China is leading the way with 22 nuclear power plants under construction.
The primary drivers are rapidly expanding power requirements needed to sustain economic growth in the region, energy security concerns, and a desire to reduce long-term greenhouse gas emissions.
Click here for more information about International Atomic Energy Agency.
Click here for more information from the World Nuclear Association.
Click here for more information about the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation.
Click here for more information about the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency.