The Climate Question Why is nuclear power back in fashion?
Feb 18, 2024
President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo, discusses Ghana's plans to build nuclear power plants by 2030 to combat climate change and energy crisis. The podcast explores the financial dynamics and challenges of nuclear power in emerging markets like Ghana, highlighting the implications for safety, financing, and maintenance culture.
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Nuclear Returns To Climate Policy
- COP28 saw more than 20 countries pledge to triple nuclear capacity by 2050 as part of climate strategies.
- Ghana signed the pledge despite currently having no power reactors, signaling growing global interest.
Ghana's Climate Impacts Are Personal
- Thomas Nadi describes Ghana's severe coastal erosion and communities repeatedly relocating due to rising seas.
- He links these climate impacts to the country's broader energy and development challenges.
Energy Security Trumps Climate Motive
- Ghana faces drought in the north and unreliable hydroelectricity, causing blackouts and pushing authorities to seek alternatives.
- Energy security and economic development drive Ghana's nuclear interest more than climate mitigation alone.