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Nuclear Energy

Nuclear energy is the power generated through nuclear reactions, primarily nuclear fission, in which the nucleus of an atom is split to release large amounts of energy. The technology harnesses this energy to produce electricity in nuclear power stations, where controlled chain reactions heat water to create steam that drives turbines connected to generators. Nuclear fission typically uses uranium-235 or plutonium-239 as fuel, with the fuel rods housed in a reactor core surrounded by control rods and coolant systems to manage the reaction rate and temperature. Nuclear energy is a low-carbon baseload power source capable of generating electricity continuously at high capacity factors, making it attractive for countries seeking to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while meeting growing energy demand. The technology is capital-intensive, requiring substantial upfront investment in reactor construction, safety systems and regulatory compliance, but offers relatively low operating costs once commissioned. Nuclear power accounts for about 10% of global electricity generation and remains a significant component of the energy mix in countries including France, the United States, China, Russia and South Korea. Safety concerns following major accidents at Three Mile Island, Chernobyl and Fukushima have shaped public perception and regulatory frameworks, leading to enhanced safety protocols and the development of advanced reactor designs with passive safety features. Proponents emphasise nuclear energy's role in decarbonising electricity systems and providing energy security, while critics highlight challenges including radioactive waste management, high capital costs, construction delays and the risk of nuclear proliferation. Emerging technologies such as small modular reactors and Generation IV designs promise improved safety, efficiency and flexibility, potentially expanding nuclear energy's role in the global transition to low-carbon energy systems.

Nuclear Energy Updates


Magazine cover image
Necsa outlines plans for rejuvenating South Africa’s nuclear sector
5th June 2026 By: Rebecca Campbell

The South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa), the State-owned company responsible for nuclear research and technology development, as well as the provision of nuclear applications and... 


Cigar Lake mine
Cameco increases ownership of prominent Canadian uranium mine Cigar Lake
1st June 2026 By: Marleny Arnoldi

TSX- and NYSE-listed Cameco and Orano Canada has reached an agreement with Tepco Resources to acquire its 5% participating interest in the Ciger Lake joint venture, in Canada. Upon closing,... 


Uranium element symbol
Canadian uranium explorer Americas Uranium lists in Frankfurt
29th May 2026 By: Marleny Arnoldi

British Columbia-based Americas Uranium Corporation has received approval for listing on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, in Germany, with its shares now officially trading under the ticker symbol... 


Uranium that is commonly known as
Southern Africa’s regional uranium production looking up as demand outlook rises
29th May 2026 By: Martin Creamer

The symbol U and the atomic number 92 are once again among the energy elements being looked at with greater intensity amid global fossil fuel supply disruption and growing demand for triuranium... 


Photo of Martin Creamer
On-The-Air (15/05/2026)
15th May 2026 By: Martin Creamer

Martin Creamer talks about uranium demand, Northern Cape copper and Cementation Africa. 


Image of Romani map/flag
Alfred project, Romania
15th May 2026 By: Sheila Barradas

Romania State-owned nuclear energy company Raten is advancing the Advanced Lead Fast Reactor European Demonstrator project to investigate thermal-hydraulic behaviour, materials performance and... 


Graphic of nuclear power plant
Rooppur nuclear power plant, Bangladesh – update
15th May 2026 By: Sheila Barradas

The process of loading 163 nuclear fuel assemblies into the nuclear power plant reactor has been completed. 


The 2026 outlook for uranium mining developments in Namibia
The 2026 outlook for uranium mining developments in Namibia
24th April 2026

The global uranium market is expected to maintain its upward trajectory in 2026, fuelled by the worldwide transition to nuclear energy, as nations seek reliable, low-carbon power sources, notes law... 


Necsa SMR briefing attracts 54 potential partners
17th April 2026 By: Rebecca Campbell

The South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) held, on Thursday, a compulsory briefing for suppliers interested in its expression of interest (EoI) regarding small modular reactors (SMRs).... 


Coega Development Corporation CEO Themba Koza (left) and Eskom chief nuclear officer Velaphi Ntuli
Coega, Eskom to ensure new nuclear build leads to inclusive growth, skills development
9th April 2026 By: Schalk Burger

State-owned special economic zone (SEZ) developer the Coega Development Corporation (CDC) and State-owned Eskom have established a three-year strategic framework for cooperation in support of South... 


Image of nuclear power plant design plans
Choczewo nuclear power plant project, Poland – update
3rd April 2026 By: Sheila Barradas

State-owned Polskie Elektrownie Jądrowe reported on March 31 that it had applied for a construction licence to build the nuclear power plant. 


Image of nuclear power plant
Rooppur nuclear power plant, Bangladesh – update
3rd April 2026 By: Sheila Barradas

The project successfully completed the boron flushing of the nuclear power plant’s first unit's primary circuit piping systems. 


Necsa CEO Loyiso Tyabashe
Necsa launches an expression of interest into Small Modular Reactor technologies
31st March 2026 By: Rebecca Campbell

The South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) issued, on Tuesday, an expression of interest (EoI), to invite technology providers, organisations and consortia, with the appropriate... 


General view of Safari 1 that houses the nuclear research reactor at Necsa's Pelindaba facility
Necsa to tender for new multi-purpose research reactor
24th March 2026 By: Reuters

South African nuclear energy firm Necsa will soon launch the next phase of a tender for a new multi-purpose research reactor aimed at maintaining its position as a top global exporter of medical... 


Kazatomprom says geopolitical tensions yet to disrupt uranium exports
Kazatomprom says geopolitical tensions yet to disrupt uranium exports
20th March 2026 By: Mariaan Webb

Kazakhstan-based uranium major Kazatomprom says ongoing geopolitical developments, including conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, have not affected its operations or financial position,... 


Artist's rendering of Rolls-Royce's SMR
Small modular reactor module development facility, UK – update
20th March 2026 By: Sheila Barradas

The project is the first SMR in the UK to received regulatory justification for its design. 


Image of nuclear power plant
Limerick Clean Energy Centre digital modernisation project, US
20th March 2026 By: Sheila Barradas

Nuclear energy producer Constellation Energy Generation is developing the first large-scale demonstration of a digital safety system upgrade at an operating US nuclear plant. 


ASP Isotopes subsidiary partners with Necsa to produce HALEU nuclear fuel
13th March 2026 By: Schalk Burger

Nasdaq- and JSE-listed advanced materials company ASP Isotopes’ (ASPI’s) nuclear fuel processing subsidiary Quantum Leap Energy (QLE) and the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (Necsa) have... 


Image of Natrium  Kemmer Unit 1
Natrium plant – Kemmer Unit 1, US – update
13th March 2026 By: Sheila Barradas

The project has been awarded a construction permit. 


Periodic table symbol for uranium
Rook I uranium project, Canada – update
13th March 2026 By: Sheila Barradas

NexGen Energy has secured final federal approval. 


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