What is nuclear power? A simple definition is, nuclear power is power (generally electrical) produced from controlled (non-explosive) nuclear reactions. So, if and when they say we are going for nuclear power, that means we are going to utilise nuclear energy to generate electricity (i.e. by heating water to create steam, which is then used to turn the turbines, and generat electricity). It doesn't send any 'nuclear' reactions to the power cables, or to our homes.
A small country like Malaysia, at least need to consider the possibility of having a nuclear power plant. It should be considered in Malaysia primarily for national energy supply security, beyond 2020; and for sustainable national development. This would mean to avoid, or try to avoid green-house gas (GHG) emissions. A nuclear power programme development in Malaysia will help the nation’s industrial, educational and quality standards.
For your info, our current national energy mix is as follows:- natural gas (57%), coal (34%), hydropower (7%), oil (2%) and renewable energy (less than 1%). Even though we have different sources of energy (this is called the Five-Fuel Diversification Policy), in actual fact Malaysia relies heavily on only three effective fuel sources – gas, coal and hydropower.
And all three are running out fast, namely circa 2020 – 2025, there will be a need for an additional major source of energy beyond this period. In 2009, 15% of the world's electricity came from nuclear power, despite concerns about safety and radioactive waste management.
To be continued..
Nuclear education 101 is a personal view aimed at raising public awareness about nuclear technology.
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