Is nuclear power a more reliable source of electricity than renewable alternatives?
According to the U.S. Energy Department, nuclear power has the highest capacity factor, or portion of time a power plant is actually producing electricity, out of all generating sources. Nuclear power plants require minimal maintenance and are designed to operate for long stretches before refueling. Because of this, nuclear plants are capable of producing maximum power for 93% of a given year, which makes nuclear power 2.5 to 3.5 times more reliable than wind and solar power.
In advanced economies, nuclear is the largest source of low-carbon electricity, providing 18% of supply in 2018, according to the International Energy Agency. This figure is set to decline in the future as existing plants near the end of their expected lives and aren't replaced. Nuclear power output in advanced economies could fall two-thirds by 2040.
