Ruan Steyn's Linkedin Analytics

Nuclear energy is gaining support. People want clean, reliable power. They see nuclear as part of the solution. According to the Public Attitudes toward Clean Energy (PACE) index, the world’s largest publicly released survey on nuclear energy, nearly 32,000 people across 31 countries shared their views - representing almost two-thirds of the global population. - Twice as many people support nuclear than oppose it - In 22 out of 31 countries, support for nuclear energy exceeds opposition - China, Poland, and Russia show 3x more support than opposition - Over 40% in favour of building new nuclear plants Many believe nuclear energy is cheaper than wind or solar, especially in places that have moved away from nuclear. In countries like Germany, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, and Sweden, nuclear energy is viewed positively for reducing energy bills. Concerns remain: - 86% concerned about the health and safety implications of nuclear use - 48% believe nuclear contributes moderately or highly to carbon emissions - Nuclear waste still a concern, but countries with clear disposal solutions face less fear The survey also highlights a lack of knowledge about nuclear energy. Many people admit they know little about it. This opens the door for education and awareness and for us as nuclear professionals to bridge the gap between fear and understanding. This is a pivotal moment for nuclear energy. The world is ready to embrace it. Together, we can push for a future powered by clean, reliable energy. Let's discuss: How do you think education and awareness can help address these concerns? What strategies could be most effective in shifting public perception and stimulating investment in nuclear? Comment below 👇 Infographic credit: Radiant Energy

The oceans are full of untapped energy. Uranium extraction from seawater could change nuclear energy. Chinese researchers have made a breakthrough in this field. Researchers have developed an innovative laboratory technique to extract uranium from ocean water. This energy-efficient method utilises a dual-electrode system to improve extraction efficiency. While its cost-effectiveness is still an estimate, early results suggest it could be significantly more affordable than previous techniques, making it a promising breakthrough for nuclear fuel supply. This new approach upgrades a well-known electrochemical technique. Both positive and negative copper electrodes now work together. This allows for the removal of 100% of uranium in lab samples. Why does this matter? The world’s oceans hold about 4.5 billion tonnes of uranium. That’s 1,000 times more than traditional mines. Until now, it was too costly and difficult to extract. China’s new system can capture all the uranium at half the cost of older methods. This makes seawater a viable energy source for the first time. What’s next? Researchers plan to scale up this technology for industrial use by 2050. If they succeed, it could unlock vast uranium reserves. This would support a global shift to clean and sustainable nuclear power. Let's discuss: Is seawater uranium extraction the future of nuclear energy? Comment below 👇 Image credit: TechXplore

China is leading the world in energy production. But here's what you might not realise: It generates more electricity than the U.S., EU, and India combined. That's massive. The numbers tell a clear story. China's electricity generation has skyrocketed. It grew from under 1,000 TWh in the mid-1980s to over 10,000 TWh in 2024. This tenfold increase shows how fast China is industrialising and urbanising. Its economy is energy-hungry and growing. Now, let’s compare it with the United States. Energy production has remained flat since the early 2000s. Even with population and economic growth, the U.S. has stabilised demand through efficiency and a shift to services. India is also on the rise. It is expanding manufacturing and electrifying its economy.  Growth in energy production is expected to continue in India as it develops. In Europe, countries like France, the UK, and Sweden show modest growth or stagnation. Their mature economies focus on energy efficiency and structural changes. What does this mean for the future: China's energy production and demand may continue to rise. The impact of abundant energy will be felt in energy-intensive industries like data centres and AI. India's rise will shape global energy markets. The U.S. and Europe must innovate further to drive sustainability while maintaining growth. The energy landscape is shifting. Adaptation is key. Let’s discuss! What are your thoughts on these trends - share below 👇 Graph generated from Our World in Data

Global uranium supply hasn’t kept pace with demand since the 1990s Secondary supply has masked a looming problem This chart tells a striking story. From 1945 to the late 1980s, uranium production ramped up aggressively to meet reactor demand. But since the Cold War ended, a consistent gap has opened between what reactors require and what the mining sector supplies. The shortfall? Covered by: - Downblending of secondary sources - Commercial and strategic inventories - Underfeeding and re-enrichment of tails But that era is ending. As existing stockpiles dwindle and new demand from SMRs, China, and data centers looms, the world will need a lot more primary uranium. Yet exploration and new mine development still lag. Many producers are just restarting previously idled assets. For investors, this isn't just a commodity cycle - it's a structural pivot. The uranium supply chain needs capital, confidence, and long-term offtake signals. The 2020s may be remembered as the decade when uranium reasserted its strategic role.

Imagine waking up to silence. No electricity, no lights, no communication. Whether caused by hurricanes, wildfires, or freezing storms, massive power outages disrupt millions of lives and expose the fragility of the nation’s energy grid. Over the last decade, the biggest blackout events in the U.S. have overwhelmingly been driven by extreme weather. Partnering with The National Public Utilities Council, this analysis draws from U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) data to rank the 10 largest outages from 2013 to 2023. The DOE defines a power outage as an event affecting more than 50,000 customers for at least an hour. Here are the top 3: - Hurricane Irma (2017) – 3.5 million Floridians lost power, making this the most widespread outage of the decade. The Category 5 hurricane left behind more than $50 billion in damages across the state. - Texas Winter Storm (2021) – 2 million customers faced blackouts as freezing temperatures pushed the state’s grid to the brink. - Hurricane Florence (2018) – 1.45 million customers in North and South Carolina were affected by intense flooding and storm damage. The Rising Threat to U.S. Infrastructure: Florida saw the single largest outage, but Texas leads with the most events on this list - including storms in 2013, 2017, and 2021. Compounding this challenge, 70% of U.S. transmission lines are over 25 years old, making them more vulnerable to failures, cyber-attacks, and even wildfires. Strengthening the grid has never been more urgent. As we move forward, investing in resilient infrastructure could be key to preventing future outages and ensuring reliable access to power for millions. What are your thoughts on the future of grid reliability and the investment required? Comment below 👇 Infographic credit: Decarbonization Channel

The latest edition of Nuclear Pulse 👇

This Week edition of Nuclear Pulse Key Updates & Insights From long-term nuclear power agreements to fusion advancements, this week has been packed with critical developments across the globe. - Top Global Nuclear Developments – Key agreements, policy shifts, and major milestones shaping the industry. - Poll of the Week – How soon will fusion energy become a dominant force in the global energy mix? - Q&A from the Audience - Why are cooling towers commonly found at nuclear plants. - Plant Watch – A deep dive into Salem Unit 2’s legacy and its ongoing contributions to clean energy. - Engagement Question – How will AI transform the energy sector in the next decade? Join the discussion, share your insights, and stay ahead of the latest in nuclear energy. Let’s build this conversation together! 👇

The Exciting Progress at Hinkley Point C. A new era for nuclear energy is here. Recent videos and photos reveal the amazing work happening at Hinkley Point C. The teams are ready to lift the dome on the second reactor building this summer. This project is not just about building a power station. It’s about changing how we build energy sources. The use of prefabrication and modular construction is key. This method allows for faster and more efficient building processes. Which makes Hinkley Point C a 'Large Modular Reactor'. This brings big benefits for Unit 2 and Sizewell C. Here are the key highlights of Hinkley Point C's progress: 1. Innovative Techniques Teams are using modern methods to speed up construction. 2. Increased Efficiency Modular construction saves time and resources. 3. Enhanced Safety New designs improve safety for workers and the environment. 4. Strong Collaboration Different teams work together seamlessly to achieve goals. 5. Future-Ready This project sets the stage for future nuclear energy advancements. Hinkley Point C is more than just a power station. It's a step forward for energy production. This project will help meet energy needs for many years. Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting project unfolds. The future of energy is being built right now!

Cheap gas doesn’t solve everything. But here is what does: → More electricity → Revitalised nuclear power → Strong supply chains The United States has some of the lowest gasoline prices globally, which benefits consumers and industries reliant on affordable fuel. However, this affordability comes with a challenge: the nation's electricity demand is rising at an unprecedented rate. Factors such as increased electrification of transportation, growing data centre operations, and expanding industrial activities contribute to the surging need for reliable and sustainable power generation. Nuclear energy is a clean and powerful option which can provide a steady 24/7/365 supply of electricity. Here are a few ways to move forward: 1. Invest in nuclear technology and infrastructure    - From R&D, startups, plant life extensions, to new builds and more. 2. Strengthen the supply chain   - Build local sources for materials and equipment. 3. Speak to the public   - Clear information can reduce fear and increase support. 4. Strengthen the nuclear workforce - Encourage more people to pursue careers in nuclear energy 5. Encourage policy changes   - Support laws that favour energy investments. What steps do you think are most crucial for accelerating nuclear energy? Comment below 👇 Image credit: Visual Capitalist

This Week in Nuclear | Nuclear Pulse – 23 May '25 The global nuclear momentum is unmistakable. From Taiwan’s surprise referendum proposal to Belgium reversing its nuclear phaseout, countries are rethinking strategy - and fast. Here are a few highlights from this week’s roundup: - Taiwan to vote on restarting Maanshan NPP - Belgium & Denmark reevaluate long-standing nuclear bans - Germany & France inch toward nuclear policy alignment - TVA (USA) submits first U.S. construction permit for SMR - India, Estonia, UK, and Canada take decisive steps on fuel, reactors, and exploration Poll Results: Nearly 50% of voters still believe "nuclear is unsafe" - a powerful reminder that communication is just as important as innovation. Plant Watch: Taiwan’s Maanshan plant - a key source of power for decades -may come back online via public vote. Engagement Question: What’s the most effective way to reduce nuclear energy’s cost or speed up delivery? - Modular builds? - Streamlined licensing? - Next-gen reactors? Leave a comment 👇 Let’s keep the energy (and the conversation) moving.

The UK's nuclear power sector is booming. Employment jumped 35% from 2021 to 2024. This means 87,000 workers are now part of this vital industry. According to a report by the Nuclear Industry Association, this expansion is driving innovation, high-skilled job opportunities, and billions in economic value. But there's more. The Engineering Construction Industry Training Board (ECITB) forecasts a further 29% increase in the nuclear workforce over the next five years, highlighting the growing demand for engineers, steel erectors, electrical technicians, and welders - particularly in key regions such as Somerset, Suffolk and Anglesey. The numbers tell a powerful story: - £20 billion economic contribution in 2024 - 256,000 jobs supported across the sector - Contributed 0.8% of the UK’s total GDP in 2024 - Up to £92,000 GVA per worker, nearly double the UK average - The North West, South West, and East of England are seeing massive growth Here’s how to understand this growth: 1. Recognise the demand for nuclear energy. 2. The nuclear sector is key to meeting this demand. • It provides stable jobs. • It supports the economy. 3. This growth offers many opportunities. Workers in this field can expect more jobs and training. 4. New talent is essential. The industry needs skilled workers to keep up with growth. This is a very exciting time for the nuclear power sector. What do you think? How can we further strengthen the nuclear workforce for the UK’s ambitious 2050 goals? Comment below 👇 Image credit: EDF Energy, Hinkley Point C

The future needs clean energy. Nuclear power shines.  It’s reliable.  It’s essential. Data centres are growing. Their energy needs are rising fast. By 2030, data centres will consume twice as much energy as they do today. A strong solution is vital. Nuclear energy is that solution: - Unmatched Reliability: Nuclear power runs 24/7/365, providing stable energy as data centres cannot afford downtime. - Scalability: Nuclear energy can expand with demand, providing a reliable solution for tech companies. - Strong Safety Record: As one of the safest energy sources, nuclear operates under strict procedures and protocols. - Low-Carbon Advantage: Nuclear power generates near-zero emissions, supporting global sustainability goals. - Energy Security: Nuclear reduces reliance on fossil fuels, protecting businesses from fluctuating energy prices. - Space Efficiency: Nuclear plants require less land while delivering high-density power, ideal for urban areas. Countries and tech companies are taking action, recognising nuclear as a stable and sustainable energy source to ensure efficiency and reduce emissions. The world is changing. As digital infrastructure expands, nuclear energy stands out as a key to powering our future sustainably. Public support for nuclear is strong. Many see it as a solution to energy challenges. Concerns about safety and waste management exist. Yet, knowledge about nuclear energy is often limited. Education is vital. We must share the benefits of nuclear energy. Understanding will build trust. Together, we can embrace nuclear energy. It’s time to power our digital world responsibly. Let’s act now for a sustainable future. Infographic credit: Visual Capitalist

The nuclear fuel cycle is vital for energy. It starts with mining uranium and ends in storage. Understanding this cycle is key to grasping nuclear energy. Here’s how it works: 1. Front end = Mining - Milling - Conversion - Enrichment - Fabrication 2. Back end = Storage - Disposal or Reprocessing Let’s break it down: Mining happens in places like Kazakhstan, Canada, and Australia. These three countries produce over 60% of the world's uranium. Next, milling turns uranium ore into yellowcake. This is a crucial step. Conversion follows. Yellowcake becomes uranium hexafluoride. Then comes enrichment. This boosts the concentration of uranium-235. Finally, fabrication turns enriched uranium into fuel rods for reactors. After use, the back end, spent fuel needs careful handling. Storage keeps it safe until disposal or reprocessing. Reprocessing allows us to recycle fuel. This closed cycle has benefits and challenges. Understanding the nuclear fuel cycle helps us see the bigger picture. It shows how nuclear energy can power our future. What part of the nuclear fuel cycle do you think holds the most potential for innovation, or the greatest risk for the future of nuclear energy? Comment below 👇 Credit infographic: WNA

Nuclear Investment Surge Investments are rising fast. The latest developments show a strong trend. Let’s break down the recent investments in nuclear energy. - Google’s Nuclear Leap   Google is joining forces with Elementl Power. They plan to build three advanced nuclear sites in the U.S. Each site will produce at least 600 MW of carbon-free power. This move supports Google's growing energy needs from AI. - Kazakhstan’s Uranium Surge   Kazatomprom, Kazakhstan’s atomic leader, is expanding. They secured funds for a new sulphuric acid plant. This plant is vital for in-situ leach uranium mining. It will start operations by 2027, boosting Kazakhstan’s global uranium role. - Strengthening France’s Nuclear Base   France’s EDF and Siparex have launched a new fund. They aim to raise EUR 300 million for SMEs in the nuclear sector. This follows a successful first fund of EUR 100 million. It supports local supply chains and drives economic growth. - Upgrades at Olkiluoto Nuclear Plant   The Nordic Investment Bank is investing in safety. They are funding upgrades at Finland’s Olkiluoto units 1 and 2 with a EUR 75 million loan. These improvements will extend the plant’s life and increase power output,  ensuring stability for the future. These investments show a clear trend. Nuclear energy is becoming vital for stable energy security. Governments and the private sector are aligning on nuclear investments. Let’s embrace this wave of nuclear investment. It shapes a cleaner, more reliable energy future. What are your thoughts on these recent investments? Leave a comment below 👇 Image credit: American Bazaar Online

What is uranium conversion? It plays a vital role in the nuclear fuel cycle. This process transforms uranium ore into usable fuel. Here's how it works: 1. Purification Yellowcake (U₃O₈) is refined to remove impurities. This step ensures the uranium is clean and ready for further processing. 2. Chemical Reaction The purified uranium becomes uranium dioxide (UO₂) or uranium tetrafluoride (UF₄). This is a key change that prepares it for the next stage. 3. UF₆ Production UF₄ is processed with fluorine gas to create uranium hexafluoride (UF₆). This compound is crucial for enrichment and is volatile. 4. Cooling & Storage UF₆ is cooled and solidified in large cylinders. It is then ready for transport to enrichment facilities. Current challenges affect the conversion process: - Limited Conversion Capacity Western nations have cut back on Russian conversion facilities. This shift has led to supply constraints. - Sulfuric acid shortages A critical chemical used in the in-situ recovery (ISR) process. This shortage is affecting uranium extraction efficiency and overall production levels. - Transportation Bottlenecks Delays at key shipping routes (e.g., Suez Canal, Panama Canal) affecting uranium and chemical deliveries. Uranium conversion is essential for nuclear energy. Understanding the process helps us grasp its importance in today's world. Opinion of the day: With ongoing supply chain disruptions, how do you see the future of uranium conversion and enrichment evolving? Comment below 👇 Imagine credit: Conversion process chemical equations, Uranium Producers of America

Only a few projects can change the energy landscape. Big projects that can change the world. Sizewell C is one of them. The UK just made a bold move. The government has given the green light for Sizewell C. This multi-billion pound investment marks a turning point for nuclear power in the UK. It opens the door to a new era of energy. It boosts energy security. It drives a clean energy future. It creates jobs and opportunities nationwide. Chancellor Rachel Reeves stated, “Today we are once again investing in Britain's renewal, with the biggest nuclear building programme in a generation.” Ed Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, emphasized, “We need new nuclear to deliver a golden age of clean energy abundance. This is the only way to protect family finances, take back control of our energy, and tackle the climate crisis.” Sizewell C is central to Britain's energy future. The government’s backing sharpens our focus. It propels us toward delivery. This is a moment to embrace. Support the move. Invest in the future. Secure our energy. Let's discuss: What impact do you think Sizewell C will have on the UK's energy future? and how will this investment reshape the nuclear landscape? Comment below 👇 Image credit: UK government

Many people believe uranium is rare. This idea comes from its role in nuclear energy. The truth is, uranium is more abundant than gold and silver. Let’s take a closer look at global uranium reserves by country as of 2021. The data comes from the World Nuclear Association, updated in August 2023. Ranked Uranium Reserves By Country (2021): Australia, Kazakhstan, and Canada hold over 50% of the world’s uranium resources. Australia stands out with more than 1.7 million tonnes. This is 28% of the world’s total reserves. Its Olympic Dam mine is the largest single deposit of uranium globally. It is also the fourth-largest copper deposit. Countries; % Global Reserves; Uranium Reserves (Tonnes)  Australia - 28% - 1.7M    Kazakhstan - 13% - 815K   Canada - 10% - 589K   Russia - 8% - 481K   Namibia - 8% - 470K   South Africa - 5% - 321K   Brazil - 5% - 311K   Niger - 5% - 277K   China - 4% - 224K   Mongolia - 2% - 145K   Uzbekistan - 2% - 131K   Ukraine - 2% - 107K   Rest of World - 9% - 524K  The figures are rounded. Outside the top three, Russia and Namibia each have about 8%. This equals roughly 470,000 tonnes. South Africa, Brazil, and Niger also have 5% each of the total deposits. China is in ninth place with 4% of global reserves, or about 224,000 tonnes. It’s important to note that these figures reflect known reserves that can be mined economically. New deposits can be found regularly. In fact, known uranium reserves increased by about 25% in the last decade. This growth is due to better technology in exploration. Not all uranium deposits are equal. For example, at Olympic Dam, uranium is a byproduct of copper mining. In South Africa, it comes from treating ores in gold mining. When two valuable substances are found together, it can lower costs and increase profits. Understanding uranium reserves is crucial. This knowledge can help guide energy policies and investment decisions. The future of nuclear energy depends on how we manage these resources. Let's discuss: Since uranium is more abundant than gold and silver but mainly produced in a few countries, how could advances in mining tech or geopolitical shifts affect its supply and nuclear energy growth in the coming decades? Comment below 👇 Image credit: Voronoi

The nuclear investment landscape just changed. The World Bank just lifted its ban on nuclear projects. This shift could change the future of power. Yesterday, the World Bank announced a major policy change. After a decade of restrictions, they are now open to nuclear energy. This decision comes as global energy demand is accelerating. Countries need reliable power to grow and thrive. This is not just a minor policy change. • Energy demand surging, fuelled by AI growth. • Emerging markets lack stable, reliable power. • Nuclear offers zero-carbon stability, but funding was limited. Now, that hurdle is being lowered. Electricity demand is expected to double by 2035 in developing countries. The bank's president, Ajay Banga, aims to meet the rising energy needs of developing countries. Banga shared this news in an email after discussions with the board. They all agreed: nuclear energy is essential. Many nations are struggling with power shortages. The bank's approach is now broader. They will collaborate with the International Atomic Energy Agency to ensure safety and regulations for nuclear projects. Banga believes in an "all of the above" strategy. He sees electricity as vital for development. The bank's investment in energy must grow. Today's $280 billion annual investment needs to more than double. This is crucial for building generation, grids, and storage. The U.S. has pushed hard for this change. As the largest shareholder in the World Bank, its influence is strong. This shift aligns with the Trump administration's focus on energy independence. Currently, 28 countries use commercial nuclear power. Ten more are set to start operations soon. Another ten may follow by 2030. This growth shows a changing attitude toward nuclear energy. The bank will also support extending the life of existing reactors. Upgrades to the grid will be part of this effort. They will explore the potential of small modular reactors (SMRs). Nuclear energy is poised for a comeback. The barriers are falling. The future of power is brighter than ever. Infographic source on nuclear power capacity: Global Energy Monitor ♻️ Repost if you like the content ➕ Follow me, Ruan Steyn, for insights on nuclear energy and investments 📫 Subscribe to the Nuclear Pulse weekly newsletter: https://lnkd.in/ewrHqwcb

Meta just made a big move. They signed a 20-year deal with Constellation Energy. This deal will keep a nuclear plant open for longer in Illinois. Meta needs power for its AI goals. The company will buy energy from the Clinton Clean Energy Centre. This plant has 1,091 megawatts of output. Urvi Parekh, Meta's head of global energy, said, "Securing clean, reliable energy is necessary to continue advancing our AI ambitions." But this isn't the end. Meta is still looking for more nuclear partners. They are reviewing over 50 proposals for nuclear projects. These projects could provide one to four gigawatts of power. Meta wants to choose sites that can be developed quickly and safely. The energy landscape is changing, and Big Tech are pushing for clean energy. The race for clean, stable energy is on - how do you see this evolving? Which nuclear power station will be next? Comment and discuss below 👇 Image credit: Constellation, Clinton Clean Energy Centre