The 29th UN Climate Change Conference (COP29), held in Baku, Azerbaijan, concluded with transformative decisions that underline nuclear energy’s pivotal role in addressing the climate crisis. The conference focused on climate finance, energy transitions, and global decarbonization, with an ambitious commitment to triple nuclear energy capacity by 2050. This decision reflects nuclear energy’s recognition as a vital, low-carbon power source necessary to achieve the Paris Agreement goals and limit global warming to 1.5°C.
Nuclear Energy in the Climate Agenda
Nuclear energy was framed at COP29 as indispensable for providing reliable, low-emission power. With renewable sources like solar and wind subject to intermittency, nuclear offers stable baseload power crucial for industrialized and developing economies alike. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) emphasized the role of advanced nuclear technologies, such as small modular reactors (SMRs), in making nuclear more accessible, particularly for regions with limited grid capacity.
Key challenges, such as nuclear waste management and safety concerns, were addressed with discussions on recycling waste and modern safety designs. The economic and environmental benefits of nuclear energy were highlighted, with proponents arguing that it is essential for accelerating the transition from fossil fuels while maintaining energy
security.
Africa’s Opportunity in the Nuclear Era
For Africa, the decision to triple nuclear energy capacity presents immense potential. African nations, which face growing energy demands and acute vulnerability to climate impacts, could use nuclear to transform their energy systems and economies.
- Stable Energy Supply: Many African countries experience unreliable electricity that stymies growth. Nuclear power provides a long-term solution, supporting industrialization and urbanization while reducing reliance on imported fossil
fuels. - . Climate Action: With most African nations committed to reducing emissions under their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), nuclear energy offers a means to decarbonize without compromising development goals.
- Technological and Economic Benefits: Partnerships with advanced nuclear countries could help African nations build local expertise in nuclear science and engineering. Additionally, deploying SMRs could address rural electrification challenges and generate high-quality jobs in construction, maintenance, and operation.
Addressing Challenges
Despite the promise, Africa faces barriers, including high upfront costs, limited infrastructure, and public apprehension about nuclear safety. COP29 highlighted the importance of addressing these challenges through international financial support and capacity-building efforts. Enhanced climate finance mechanisms, coupled with technical assistance from bodies like the IAEA, will be critical for realizing nuclear’s potential on the continent.
Nuclear in Global Climate Strategy
The tripling of nuclear energy capacity underscores its growing importance in global climate strategies. Countries like France and Canada advocated strongly for its inclusion, emphasizing its ability to stabilize grids dominated by renewables. Nuclear energy was acknowledged as essential to diversifying clean energy portfolios, creating jobs, and driving innovation.
As COP29 concluded, it became clear that nuclear energy will play a central role in shaping future energy systems. Africa’s engagement in this agenda could transform its energy landscape, enabling sustainable development and climate resilience. COP30, set for South Korea, will provide an opportunity to track the progress of these bold commitments and refine strategies for their implementation.
