Nuclear Renaissance - October 2023

NUCLEAR RENAISSANCE

The only reliable Low Carbon technology available for baseload electricity?

Embarking on a Sustainable Future: The Power of Nuclear Energy

By Jono Torrealba Founder, Nuclear Strategy

In an era where the demand for energy is escalating while the world’s ecological balance teeters on the edge, the quest for a sustainable energy source has taken centre stage. At the heart of this endeavour lies the enigmatic and powerful realm of nuclear energy. As the founder of Nuclear Strategy, I am thrilled to welcome you to our platform that not only educates but also fosters dialogue, innovation, and collaboration in the realm of nuclear energy.

The resurgence of interest in nuclear energy isn’t just a trend – it’s a necessity. While renewable energy sources like solar and wind have made substantial strides, they cannot yet offer the continuous, highcapacity power that our modern world requires. This is where nuclear energy steps in. With the capability to generate a colossal amount of energy with minimal greenhouse gas emissions, nuclear power presents an unparalleled solution to the energy conundrum.

At Nuclear Strategy, we believe in providing a comprehensive view of nuclear energy that explores its potential benefits while addressing the concerns that surround it. Our magazine is more than just a collection of articles; it’s an educational journey. From the intricacies of nuclear fission and fusion to the latest breakthroughs in reactor design and fuel technology, our pages are designed to enlighten readers from all walks of life. Whether you’re an industry expert, a government policymaker, or an eager learner, Nuclear Strategy Magazine offers insights that transcend boundaries.

Fostering Dialogue through Live Events

In the pursuit of forging a sustainable energy future, collaboration is key. That’s why Nuclear Strategy is proud to announce our live Nuclear Strategy Summit: Building the Nuclear Economy, on the 8th

May 2024 at the Bridgewater Hall, Manchester UK. The conference will bring together industry leaders, government officials, researchers, and advocates. Our events provide a platform for sharing knowledge, discussing policy frameworks, and brainstorming innovative solutions. By uniting diverse perspectives, we can pave the way for a safer and more sustainable nuclear energy landscape.

Our mission is not just to champion the potential of nuclear energy but to ensure its deployment is accompanied by the highest standards of safety and environmental stewardship.

Join the Movement

In a world at the crossroads of energy demand and environmental consciousness, nuclear energy emerges as a bridge to a cleaner, more abundant future. As the founder of Nuclear Strategy, I invite you to embark on this journey with us. Our publication and live events are poised to become the nucleus of discourse, innovation, and collaboration in the realm of nuclear energy. Let’s seize this moment to shape a sustainable tomorrow, powered by the marvels of nuclear science.

Stay informed, stay empowered, and join us as we unravel the potential of nuclear energy. Together, we can illuminate the path towards a brighter, greener future.

For more information, subscribe to Nuclear Strategy Magazine today and be part of a transformative movement in energy evolution. To register for the Nuclear Strategy Summit – Building the Nuclear Economy on the 8th May 2024 at the prestigious Bridgewater Hall, Manchester UK. email us at hello@nuclearstrategy.earth

Navigating the Path to Energy Security: The UK Government’s Nuclear Strategy

By Amelda Inas

As the world grapples with the dual challenge of surging energy demand and the imperative to combat climate change, the United Kingdom stands at a pivotal juncture. In a bid to secure energy independence while advancing towards a net-zero carbon emissions future by 2050, the UK government has outlined an ambitious nuclear strategy. This comprehensive approach not only aims to reverse the decline in nuclear power capacity but also harnesses new technologies, bolsters domestic resilience, and fosters a vibrant energy sector.

A Green Industrial Revolution’s Core Pillar

In November 2020, the UK government introduced its ‘Ten Point Plan for a Green Industrial Revolution,’ a visionary roadmap for transforming the nation’s energy landscape. Among the ten key areas, the government explicitly emphasized “delivering new and advanced nuclear power” as a foundational pillar. The primary goal was to counter the decline in nuclear power capacity and leverage its potential in contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable energy mix.

The British Energy Security Strategy

Building upon its commitment, the UK government unveiled its ‘British Energy Security Strategy’ in April 2022. This strategy served as a blueprint to accelerate

the growth of domestic power generation, aligning with the nation’s push for energy independence. In the wake of global energy market turmoil triggered by the pandemic and geopolitical events, such as Russia’s incursion into Ukraine, the government recognized the critical importance of securing a reliable power source.

Nuclear energy emerged as a linchpin in this endeavour. The strategy acknowledged nuclear power’s status as the only proven, scalable source of low-carbon electricity generation. It underscored the necessity of a substantial baseload of reliable power for the UK’s energy security. By targeting 24 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2050, equivalent to a quarter of projected electricity demand, the government demonstrated its commitment to this transformative shift

Pathway to Progress

Central to the strategy is the commitment to expedite nuclear projects’ progression. The government announced its intention to take at least one nuclear project to final investment decision (FID) during the current parliament, with an allocation of £1.7 billion for direct funding support. Additionally, plans were set to take two projects to FID in the subsequent parliament. The strategy set forth a goal of achieving the equivalent of one reactor installation annually, in contrast to the historically lengthy timelines.

The Rise of Great British Nuclear

To drive this endeavour, the UK government introduced the ‘Great British Nuclear’ (GBN) vehicle. This entity, launched in July 2023, is designed to shepherd projects through the developmental stages and create a robust pipeline of new nuclear builds. Companies have the opportunity to engage with GBN and vie for funding to advance their projects. This initiative marks the inception of a nuclear renaissance that promises to bolster the nation’s economy and power infrastructure.

Debate and Commentary

The UK’s nuclear ambitions have sparked fervent debate and commentary. The House of Commons Science, Innovation and Technology Committee’s report acknowledged the significance of nuclear power in meeting electricity needs but highlighted the complexities of achieving the government’s ambitious targets. The committee called for a more detailed strategy to translate aspirations into tangible outcomes.

Critics of the nuclear expansion, including Greenpeace UK and some political parties, argue that the focus should be on renewables and energy efficiency. Nevertheless, the Labour Party has expressed its support for nuclear power as a critical element of the energy mix, aiming to propel new projects and extend existing plants’ lifespans.

As the UK embarks on this transformative journey, the complexities, challenges, and potential of nuclear energy remain central to the nation’s energy security strategy. Balancing the demands of environmental responsibility, energy independence, and technological advancement will determine the success of this audacious endeavour. The road ahead may be fraught with obstacles, but the promise of a cleaner, more sustainable energy future beckons—a future powered by the fusion of vision, innovation, and resolve.

Milestone Achieved: Retrieval of Historic Nuclear Waste from Sellafield’s Oldest Store

By Geniout Bennoiut-Teniou

After decades of meticulous planning, a historic milestone was reached in the ongoing decommissioning saga at Sellafield. The inaugural retrieval of waste from the site’s oldest storage facility marked a significant triumph.

Following weeks of meticulous groundwork and thorough inspections, the Retrievals Team for the Pile Fuel Cladding Silo convened within the control room of the seventy-year-old facility. Their attention was fixed on an array of monitors as a cutting-edge robotic arm embarked on a groundbreaking mission – extracting and repackaging waste from the silo, a task being undertaken for the very first time.

Constructed during the 1950s, the colossal concrete silo was devised to house cladding material derived from spent nuclear fuel from the original Windscale Piles – the inaugural nuclear reactors at the Sellafield site. Designed as an impenetrable “vault,” the silo initially lacked a method for retrieving its contents or a comprehensive decommissioning strategy.

The term “cladding” pertains to the metal enclosure enveloping uranium fuel rods utilized within nuclear reactors. Once these rods fulfilled their purpose, the cladding was methodically stripped away to facilitate reprocessing of the fuel. Presently, this discarded cladding constitutes intermediate-level nuclear waste.

After almost two decades of operational service, the silo’s six compartments became replete, ceasing waste reception during the early 1970s. Subsequent years witnessed a sequence of enhancements, rendering the structure capable of securely retaining its contents while a retrieval plan took form. Today, the endeavour constitutes one of the globe’s most intricate and formidable decommissioning

undertakings, ranking among the paramount priorities for both Sellafield Ltd and the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA).

Over the past decade, an immense concrete superstructure enveloping the silo has been erected. Furthermore, meticulously engineered protective doors have been installed across each of the six compartments. In 2017, apertures were successfully created at the apex of each compartment, thereby affording access to the accumulated waste – a breakthrough transpiring after a span of sixty-five years.

Sellafield Ltd then designed, manufactured, tested, and installed 9 huge modules containing the machinery needed to empty the silo. This was done in collaboration with Bechtel and Cavendish Nuclear Solutions working together as Bechtel Cavendish Nuclear Solutions. Successful testing of the robot grab was carried out earlier this month, paving the way for the historic achievement of the first waste retrievals from the silo. Operators used the grab to remotely reach into the silo and pick up the waste before loading it into a specially designed stainlesssteel box. Once filled the box will be loaded into a shielded flask and transported to a brand new, fit-for-purpose store called the Box Encapsulation Plant Product Store. Retrievals from the silo mark a significant step forward in the clean-up and decommissioning of one of the most hazardous buildings on the Sellafield site.

Hinkley Point C: A Catalyst for Local Transformation

Recent research reveals a remarkable metamorphosis in the fortunes of the Hinkley Point C locale. What was once perceived as a remote region grappling with insufficient employment opportunities and an aging demographic has experienced a remarkable turnaround, emerging as an exemplar of success.

Back in 2017, the Guardian reported West Somerset’s placement at the bottom of the UK’s social mobility rankings – a stark reality that contrasts sharply with the present landscape, significantly shaped by the emergence of the Hinkley Point C nuclear new build project.

The Heart of South West Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has recently unveiled statistics that underscore the profound impact of Hinkley Point C on the West Somerset and Sedgemoor communities.

One of the most pronounced effects is observed in the 25-39 age group, where the population has surged by nearly 50% in Sedgemoor. The immediate vicinity of the project, centered around Bridgwater, has experienced an economic resurgence, with productivity outpacing regional and national averages. Locally, employment has surged by 28%, accompanied by a remarkable 100% rise in the establishment of major enterprises.

Achieving this transformation has necessitated a collective endeavour, bringing together key stakeholders such as the Heart of the South West LEP, Somerset Council, Somerset Chamber of Commerce, Bridgwater and Taunton College, and the South West Manufacturing Advisory Service. United in purpose, these entities have orchestrated a substantial transformation in the lives and future prosperity of the area’s residents.

In the wake of Hinkley Point C’s influence, what was once considered a challenging landscape has emerged as a testament to collaborative vision and focused efforts – a region poised for a brighter and more vibrant future.

UK Government Embraces Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) for Energy Security and Sustainability

By Amelda Inas

The United Kingdom government is embarking on a groundbreaking initiative to bolster domestic energy security and fulfil its ambitious net zero targets through the adoption of a new generation of smallscale nuclear reactors.

Previous Energy Secretary Grant Shapps lauds the potential for substantial public and private sector investments in small modular reactors (SMRs), as the launch of Great British Nuclear (GBN) approaches. The government’s vision is propelled by the distinct attributes of SMRs, which can be fabricated within factory settings, transported across the country, and subsequently assembled at power stations. This innovative approach leverages prefabricated components, diverging from the traditional large, stationary reactors, as endorsed by the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Great British Nuclear (GBN), operating as an autonomous entity, is entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring the government’s objectives are met: generating 24 gigawatts of nuclear power by 2050 and attaining up to a quarter of the UK’s electricity from domestically produced nuclear power by the same deadline. The pivotal role envisioned for SMRs in this pursuit stems from their streamlined construction process, offering swifter deployment, heightened flexibility, and reduced costs compared to conventional reactors.

To invigorate this transformative journey, developers can now signal their intention to compete for funding within a GBNadministered competition.

Addressing the cost dynamics of nuclear energy, Leon Flexman, Corporate Affairs Director at nuclear reactor developer X-energy, notes that smaller-scale plants present financial advantages and decreased investor risk, circumventing the initial expense hurdle associated with larger plants. Flexman emphasizes the potential for situating SMRs in diverse locations, including those less amenable to traditional nuclear facilities, while expediting construction.

X-energy, which has secured a federal grant in the U.S. for SMR technology deployment, is vying for GBN funding for its high-temperature gas reactor. Flexman underscores the urgency for prompt execution and expresses optimism that GBN’s commitment will provide the necessary clarity for advancements.

Nuclear Minister Andrew Bowie underscores GBN’s indispensable role in powering the nation, while Simon Bowen, GBN’s interim chair, underscores the transformative impact of the competition on nuclear power harnessing. Alongside the competition’s launch, the government is poised to allocate up to £157 million in funding for nuclear projects. This includes £77.1 million for advanced nuclear business development and £58 million for the advancement of advanced modular reactors (AMRs) that operate at elevated temperatures.

David Landon, CEO of molten salt reactor developer MoltenFLEX, set to receive £1.2 million from the government for molten salt fuel development, underscores the importance of clarifying potential AMR sites. Landon also calls for government support across a spectrum of nuclear technologies, encompassing advanced reactors, to effectively meet energy demands and sustainability goals.

Rolls-Royce Aims to Lead in Mini Nuclear Power Plant Development

By Amelda Inas

The leader of Rolls-Royce expresses unwavering confidence that the eminent engineering powerhouse will secure victory in the endeavour to establish Britain’s inaugural fleet of compact nuclear power plants, founded solely on merit.

Guiding the company since the commencement of the year, Tufan Erginbilgic asserts that Rolls-Royce occupies a commanding position to triumph in the global contest initiated by governmental authorities. This assertion stems from the advanced nature of the company’s designs, which have positioned it ahead of competitors.

Rolls-Royce has been at the forefront of a British consortium focused on the creation of small modular reactors (SMRs) for numerous years. This initiative has garnered over £200 million in funding from the government, marking a significant milestone in project development.

The integration of small nuclear reactors into the United Kingdom’s long-term energy strategy has become a pivotal aspect of the nation’s energy outlook.

While the opening of an international competition to identify the preeminent SMR project, featuring contenders such as Hitachi, General Electric, and TerraPower, surprised industry insiders, Rolls-Royce remains optimistic about its chances. A shortlist of contenders is anticipated to be unveiled later this year.

Despite scepticism from some quarters, including former Rolls-Royce CEO Sir John Rose, who deemed the global contest counterproductive, the company’s commitment to innovation remains steadfast. RollsRoyce believes that the potential benefits of backing their design outweigh concerns about being the “best in class.”

Looking ahead, Rolls-Royce is enthusiastic about exporting its SMR technology to other countries, with the potential to generate 40,000 jobs in the UK by 2050 and contribute £52 billion to the economy.

Erginbilgic underlined the significance of their expertise, influenced by six decades of involvement in nuclear submarine endeavours, in propelling their prospects. The foundation of Rolls’ SMRs, projected to cost around £2 billion each, rests on the technology propelling the Royal Navy’s nuclear submarine fleet.

Erginbilgic’s remarks followed Rolls-Royce’s recent announcement of a return to profitability. While the firm’s primary revenue stream arises from servicing commercial plane engines, it also operates in defence and power sectors.

Erginbilgic is actively preparing a comprehensive reformation strategy for the company, with plans to reveal the new approach in November.

A spokesperson for the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero emphasised the need for competition, highlighting its equitable and transparent nature, fostering the development oft premier SMR technologies globally.

Sweden Shifts, Opening Doors for Nuclear Advancements

Sweden has redefined its energy mix goal from being “100% renewable” to “100% fossil-free,” ushering in a new perspective on nuclear energy development. This pivotal adjustment presents an avenue for the construction of new nuclear reactors, effectively reshaping the nation’s energy trajectory.

Reports from news agencies highlight Sweden’s strategic shift, aligning it with a broader coalition of European Union (EU) countries that have informally united within France’s pro-nuclear alliance.

Elisabeth Svantesson, Swedish Finance Minister, communicated to the parliament the transformative nature of this transition, underlining its implications for nuclear power. She emphasizes that the country’s pursuit of clean electricity and a stable energy framework necessitates a reconsideration of its energy mix strategy.

Sweden’s history saw a decision four decades ago to phase out nuclear power, but the evolving landscape, characterized by an anticipated twofold surge in annual electricity demand to approximately 300 TWh by 2040 and a commitment to net-zero emissions by 2045, now beckons the inclusion of new nuclear capacities.

Analogous to Italy’s trajectory, which saw a rejection of nuclear power in the wake of the Fukushima disaster, Sweden is charting a similar U-turn. Italy, following its 2011 referendum that rejected nuclear resurgence, is now actively pursuing plans to construct new reactors. Sweden’s state-owned energy entity, Vattenfall, is reportedly evaluating the construction of at least two small modular reactors (SMRs) alongside the extension of the operational lifespan of existing reactors.

Presently, nearly 98% of Sweden’s electricity originates from hydropower, nuclear energy, and wind sources.

As a broader trend, nuclear energy is experiencing a resurgence in Southeastern Europe. Bulgaria announced intentions to introduce a new unit at the Kozloduy nuclear power plant, while Romania’s stateowned Nuclearelectrica is spearheading an initiative to deploy SMRs.

Conversely, Germany remains resolute in shutting down its remaining reactors, with Austria and Luxembourg staunchly opposing nuclear power.

Sweden’s recalibration of its energy aspirations reflects a complex and dynamic energy landscape, where the pursuit of sustainability, reliability, and innovation demands a thoughtful and adaptive approach.

Nuclear now review

By Jono Torrealba

In his compelling documentary “Nuclear Now,” Oliver Stone, the visionary mind behind nuclear now, presents a historical and crucial argument concerning the intricate perception/reality quandary that has beset nuclear power. This dichotomy, Stone posits, is undergoing a seismic transformation. While conventional wisdom has often painted nuclear power as hazardous, an indispensable energy resource, Stone contends, is emerging as both pristine and secure. Given the dire state of our energy crisis, the imminent threat of climate change, and the incremental advancements of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, Stone argues fervently that nuclear power must be a central fixture in our energy provisioning.

These opposing facets of the debate have entrenched themselves over the years, rendering prospects of change seemingly remote. However, it is within this context that “Nuclear Now” (initially named “Nuclear”) assumes a pivotal role. This documentary holds the potential, when embraced with open-mindedness, to reshape public perspectives on nuclear energy – much like how “An Inconvenient Truth” influenced the discourse on climate change.

For decades, a primordial fear has been associated with all things labelled as “nuclear.” The protest movements of the late ‘70s and early ‘80s bundled nuclear power and nuclear weapons into a single ominous category. This association led to a narrative where “nuclear” equated to danger, creating a cultish stigma that persisted even in the mispronunciation of the term as “nuke-ular.” This expression conveyed the idea that inherent danger lurked within this technology, leading to its toxic classification.

Defying this notion, Stone contends that detractors readily assert their position by invoking the trifecta of “Three Mile Island, Chernobyl, Fukushima.” This fear of nuclear disaster, an almost primal dread, has become an unassailable doctrine for the anti-nuclear ideology. It has stifled rational dialogue, as the pro-nuclear stance has been portrayed, within this ideology, as synonymous with advocating nuclear calamity.

Yet, quietly acknowledged is the fact that the terror of nuclear disaster has, over the decades, morphed into a mythology. Notably, no casualties resulted from the Three Mile Island incident. Nevertheless, aided by the release of the 1979 film “The China

Syndrome,” the perception of fatalities became entrenched. However, contemporary nuclear-power reactors boast advanced structural safeguards, far surpassing those present during Three Mile Island, Chernobyl, or Fukushima disasters.

Furthermore, Stone invites skeptics to observe the alignment of this argument with global sentiments. Beyond the United States, nuclear power enjoys a divergent perception. Nations like France, an exemplar of Euro-socialism, draw 70% of their energy from nuclear sources. This shift has led to a significant reduction in carbon emissions per capita, compared to their American counterparts. Even within the U.S., attitudes are shifting, with 60% of Americans now favouring nuclear energy, which constitutes 20% of the nation’s energy generation.

The case for nuclear energy, positioned as the saviour from fossil fuel addiction, echoes themes from Robert Stone’s documentary “Pandora’s Promise,” which argued that nuclear energy had been unjustly vilified. However, “Nuclear Now” amplifies this argument by painting a historical context that’s eye-opening.

Stone delves into the nuclear bomb, a harbinger of trauma from Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which congealed as collective scar tissue. This resonant trauma led to a cognitive cross-wiring between nuclear war and nuclear energy, blurring the lines between two disparate realms.

This paradigm wasn’t always so. In the 1950s, President Dwight D. Eisenhower envisioned nuclear power as a massive electricity source and launched the Atoms for Peace program. Admiral Hyman Rickover propelled this vision by spearheading nuclear power plants for land use. In this era, nuclear energy coalesced with conservationist ideals and garnered support from organizations like the Sierra Club.

The tide, however, changed. Major oil companies, known as the Seven Sisters, maneuvered against nuclear power. The documentary “Nuclear Now” underscores that even the Rockefeller family,

pillars of Standard Oil, propagated false notions about radiation’s harm. Stone attributes this to an irrational contamination phobia, asserting that humans are inherently adapted to handle low levels of radiation.

Surprisingly, the ‘60s and ‘70s saw oil companies aligning themselves with anti-nuclear movements to quell nuclear power’s challenge to fossil fuels. Today, Stone opines, a new landscape unfolds, propelled by a defining factor:

Fossil fuels are unsafe, not just because they pollute, but because they’ve emerged as the architects of climate change. This peril surpasses all others. This idea correlates with our escalating electricity needs, particularly in developing nations, where aspirations for modern amenities amplify energy demand. With renewables insufficient to meet this escalation, nuclear energy assumes a critical role.

Stone underscores that while wind and solar are integral components of the future, they can’t

singularly fulfil the rising energy demand. Nuclear energy, despite its nuanced discourse, bridges this gap.

Stone then highlights the present fixation on personal virtue within middle-class culture, underpinned by actions like recycling and adopting electric cars. However, these well-intentioned acts, Stone argues, won’t suffice to mitigate climate change. They represent a feel-good consumerist fantasy, and despite their impact, the global energy crisis persists.

Oliver Stone’s documentary history has been a mixed bag, but “Nuclear Now” stands apart. Delivered with his trademark intelligence and quest for truth, the film diverges from polemical notions and instead presents a sober, journalistic perspective on nuclear power. It beckons the audience to engage, challenging preconceptions. This documentary is not just a call; it’s a demand to be seen and reckoned with.

Introduction

In the ever-evolving landscape of global energy demands and climate considerations, uranium is reemerging as a compelling investment proposition. As nations strive to meet their clean energy goals and reduce carbon emissions, the role of nuclear power as a reliable, low-carbon energy source is garnering renewed attention. This rekindled focus on nuclear energy is casting a spotlight on uranium, the essential fuel that drives nuclear reactors. In this article, we delve into the uranium investment thesis, exploring the factors driving interest in this resource, its potential for growth, and the strategic considerations for investors in this complex yet promising sector.

Nuclear Energy’s Revival

The imperative to transition to cleaner energy alternatives has placed nuclear power at the forefront of discussions. Nuclear energy’s capacity to provide baseload power with minimal carbon emissions has propelled it into conversations about sustainable energy solutions. As governments worldwide set ambitious net-zero emission targets, nuclear energy is resurfacing as a crucial component of the energy mix. This resurgence underscores the importance of uranium, the foundation of nuclear power generation.

Supply and Demand Dynamics

A pivotal factor in the uranium investment thesis is the evolving supply and demand landscape. The curtailment of uranium production in recent years, exacerbated by the 2011 Fukushima incident, has led

to a supply deficit. Simultaneously, the projected growth in nuclear power capacity, driven by countries like China, India, and emerging markets, is anticipated to heighten demand. This dynamic has ignited a potential supply-demand imbalance, which bodes well for future uranium prices.

Investment Potential

The uranium market’s cyclical nature is poised for a potential upswing. The present low prices have constrained exploration and development activities, creating a scenario where a constrained supply may struggle to keep pace with escalating demand. As new reactors come online, existing ones extend their operational lifespans, and governments seek to meet emission reduction targets, the demand for uranium could experience a significant uptick. Savvy investors such as Rick Rule, Jim Rogers and Doug Casey have recently voiced their interest in positioning themselves ahead of this potential market shift.

Economic and Environmental Considerations

Uranium’s investment thesis transcends economic factors; environmental considerations also play a role. As the world navigates the transition to cleaner energy, nuclear power stands out as a stable and scalable solution. Unlike intermittent renewable sources, nuclear power ensures consistent energy output, making it a reliable complement to variable renewables like solar and wind. This energy stability aligns with the broader goal of achieving a diverse energy mix that balances reliability and environmental sustainability.

The Uranium Investment Thesis: Powering Tomorrow’s Energy Landscape

By Jono Torrealba

*The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or investment advice. The content should not be relied upon or used as the sole basis for making decisions regarding investments. Always consult with a qualified financial advisor or professional before making any investment decisions.

Navigating Challenges

While the uranium investment thesis is compelling, it’s essential to acknowledge the sector’s challenges. Regulatory hurdles, public sentiment, and geopolitical complexities can impact the nuclear industry’s trajectory. Nonetheless, these challenges underscore the importance of well-informed investment decisions, driven by an understanding of both the potential rewards and the risks.

Conclusion

In the intricate mosaic of global energy transformation, uranium occupies a critical role. As I write this the spot price of the commodity is up around 20% this year currently hovering around the $72 mark (around 75% of Uranium purchases are done via the term market which provides long term contracting typically 5-15 years). It’s perceived that the cost of the production of Uranium is around $60 a pound, with $75-$80 a pound price point being an incentive price target that is necessary to give incentive for miners to up production to erase the production deficit, and which would make rock in the miners inventory go from being treated as marginal to be viewed as reserve and resource. Investors who have recollections of the previous Uranium bull market, during which Paladin Energy witnessed a remarkable surge from 10 cents a share to over $10 per share in a mere 4-year span, leading to a staggering 1000-fold return on investment, might be eagerly anticipating the potential resurgence of a similar bull market. Bolstered by robust fundamentals and a changing market sentiment, Rick Rule characterizes this scenario

as the inception of a stealth bull market, using the word stealth because “no one has noticed” he says playfully.

As nuclear power garners renewed recognition for its clean and reliable energy output, uranium’s importance as a strategic investment cannot be overstated. The uranium investment thesis revolves around the interplay of supply and demand dynamics, economic incentives, and environmental imperatives. As investors evaluate their portfolios, the consideration of uranium’s potential offers a glimpse into the future of sustainable energy and the pivotal role nuclear power will play in shaping tomorrow’s energy landscape.

Nuclear Strategy Summit

Nuclear Strategy Summit

Enhancing the Nuclear Economy

Bridgewater Hall, Manchester UK. 8th May 2024

At Nuclear Strategy, we wholeheartedly acknowledge the pivotal role that nuclear technology occupies in confronting global dilemmas such as climate change, energy security, and industrial progress. Through this event, our aim is to cultivate collaboration, ignite innovative thinking, and shape the trajectory of the nuclear industry.

With an electrifying program that encompasses an extensive array of subjects, we cordially invite you to delve into the most recent breakthroughs in cutting-edge reactor designs, pioneering fuel technologies, and emerging patterns in fusion research. Acquire profound insights into policy structures, regulatory deliberations, and funding models that bolster the advancement of sophisticated nuclear technology.

• Policy and Guidelines for Advanced Nuclear Innovation

• Economic Aspects and Capital in Advanced Nuclear Solutions

• Establishing a Robust Advanced Nuclear Technology Supply Network

• Ensuring Safety, Confidence, and Public Trust in Advanced Nuclear Innovations

• Emerging Technological Breakthroughs in Nuclear Energy Advancements

• Exploring Diverse Applications of Nuclear Technology Beyond Power Generation

• Progressing Towards Sustainability: Implementing Advanced Nuclear Power

• Advanced Nuclear Energy’s Role in Navigating the Energy Transition

• Fostering diversity and addressing the skills gap

To join us or for speaking and exhibiting opportunities please click to register here or alternatively email hello@nuclearstratergy.earth

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