Key Issues
Protecting the Environment
Nuclear energy is America’s largest source of clean-air, carbon-free electricity, producing no greenhouse gases or air pollutants. The industry’s commitment to the environment extends to protecting wildlife and their habitats.
Reliable & Affordable Energy
Nuclear power plants produce nearly 20 percent of U.S. electricity. No other source of electricity can provide the combined benefits of nuclear energy: large amounts of reliable and affordable electricity, long-term price stability and no greenhouse gas emissions.
New Nuclear Plants
The U.S. Department of Energy projects that U.S. electricity demand will rise 28 percent by 2035. That means our nation will need hundreds of new power plants to provide electricity for our homes and continued economic growth. Maintaining nuclear energy's current 20 percent share of generation would require building about one reactor per year starting in 2016, based on DOE forecasts.
Safety & Security
The nation’s nuclear power plants are among the safest and most secure industrial facilities in the United States. Multiple layers of physical security, together with high levels of operational performance, protect plant workers, the public and the environment.
Nuclear Waste Disposal
Like other industrial facilities, nuclear power plants produce necessary byproducts. These include used nuclear fuel and less radioactive material like filters, tools and protective clothing.
