MYTHS OF NUCLEAR ENERGY, Mag. Miroslav Gregorič
16 January 2025
Video available on YouTube (in Slovenian): https://youtu.be/RJBoZZSCUSI
Introduction by Marjan Šetinc
A lot is written on the nuclear energy very much recently, particularly in Slovenia following the cancellation of the referendum on the construction of NEK2 (Second nuclear power plant). This energy source raises public concern, primarily due to fears of potential mishandling of nuclear facilities or equipment—whether it involves nuclear power plants (the most recent major accidents being Fukushima, Chernobyl, the Three Mile Island), atomic bombs, or devices used for other purposes, especially scientific and research activities.
The guest of SDMO – Slovenian Association for International Relations – was Mag. Miroslav Gregorič, a well-known expert frequently seen on TV, who is a leading authority on nuclear energy. He will undoubtedly provide a deeper understanding of the dilemmas and doubts surrounding nuclear energy. The discussion was moderated by Marjan Šetinc, President of SDMO.
Introduction with some data on nuclear energy
Despite various concerns surrounding the use of nuclear energy, it has proven to be extremely useful both for peaceful purposes and extensively for military purposes. Currently, 40 countries worldwide operate nuclear reactors for electricity production, totaling 449 reactors, with an additional 50 reactors under construction—25 of which in China.
The United States has the largest number of operational reactors (94), followed by China and France (56 each), Russia (36), Japan (33), South Korea (26), India (23), Canada (19), Ukraine (15), the UK (9), Spain (7), Czechia (6), Sweden (6), and Pakistan (6). In addition, 19 countries operate between 1 and 5 reactors, with Slovenia operating one. With its Krško Nuclear Power Plant (NEK) serving a population of 2 million, Slovenia ranks among the most nuclear-dependent countries in the world (behind France, Czechia, Sweden, Slovakia, and Finland).
Several countries also have research nuclear reactors. Globally, there are approximately 820 research and test reactors, with more than 300 in the United States and 120 in Russia (as of 2020).
It is difficult to entirely separate the perception of threats from peaceful use of nuclear energy from those associated with nuclear weapons. Hiroshima and Nagasaki have demonstrated the real danger of nuclear weapons, the fear of their use undoubtedly remains tangible. Chernobyl and Fukushima have had—and continue to have—a strong psychological impact, fostering mistrust in the construction of nuclear power plants. Russian threats with nuclear weapon in the Ukraine conflict further heighten public concerns globally, Slovenia is no exception in this respect.
The United States operates 66 submarines powered by nuclear reactors, Russia 31, China 12, the UK 10, France 9, and India 2. Many of these submarines are equipped with nuclear ballistic missiles. As seen two years ago, during the dispute between France and the United States over submarine supplies to Australia which will soon also possess nuclear-powered submarines produced in USA.
The nuclear-armed states are the United States, Russia, China, India, Pakistan, the UK, France, North Korea, and Israel.
The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) estimated in 2023 that the total number of nuclear warheads acquired by nuclear states reached 12,512. Approximately 9,576 are kept with military stockpiles. About 3,844 warheads are deployed with missiles. 2,000 warheads, which are primarily from Russia and the United States, are maintained for high operational alerts.[10]
Two International Organizations Dealing with Nuclear Energy
- The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) – Based in Vienna, the IAEA operates under the auspices of the United Nations and was established as an autonomous organization on July 29, 1957. Its purpose is to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy and prevent the proliferation of nuclear weapons. The initiative to establish the agency was proposed by U.S. President Dwight Eisenhower in his “Atoms for Peace” speech to the UN General Assembly in 1953. The IAEA, along with its former director Mohamed El Baradei, was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2005.
- The World Nuclear Association (WNA) – This organization unites companies and organizations from 44 countries involved in nuclear energy. It is not affiliated with the UN and operates independently, representing reactor manufacturers, equipment suppliers, and uranium extraction companies. Slovenia does not have any companies participating in the WNA.
Some Questions and Topics for Discussion
- What is happening with the use of nuclear energy?
- Is nuclear energy in decline?
- Is there a need to consult the public on the construction of nuclear reactors if they are praised as safe and secure?
- How is nuclear energy being used worldwide?
- Is nuclear energy the future?
Some specific cases include Germany’s decision to shut down its reactors and Austria’s vote against activation of the completed reactor in Zwentendorf. What role does nuclear energy play in international relations?
Mag. Miroslav Gregorič has been actively involved with IAEA bodies for many years. As a top expert on nuclear energy, he has contributed to the design of nuclear reactors, such as in Prevlaka, Croatia, and has been monitoring global developments in nuclear energy for decades. Without doubt he is highly qualified to present the current state of nuclear energy, its future, and provide answers to the above questions.
*All the above data comes from official sources of organizations dealing with nuclear energy