The greenhouse gas emissions of nuclear energy – Life cycle assessment of a European pressurised reactor

Nuclear energy contributes ~10% of the global electricity generation and different views exist on its carbon-intensity sustainability. Context is crucial to determine sustainability new nuclear power generators, making existence a answer unresolved question unlikely. This study aims establish life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions associated with in Europe given ongoing construction generators. Due high uncertainty complexity that characterise operation we adopt multi-method, scenario-based approach. The three methods used are: process-based, input-output, hybrid life cycle assessment. Scenarios account for total outputs over generator, end options, sectoral allocations costs input-output calculus. Results range between 16.55–17.69, 18.82–35.15, 24.61–32.74 gCO2e/kWh, respectively. These are either well above or at upper possibilities (5 22 gCO2e/kWh) stated report UK’s Committee Climate Change, significantly higher than median value 12 gCO2e/kWh presented by Intergovernmental Panel Change. They also values acknowledged industry. Given severe potential lock-in effects today’s choices future generations, this research questions role meet UN Sustainable Development Goals calls further scrutiny environmental viability.