Critical findings on nuclear and renewable energies: Reflections on rainbow energy, environmental protection and safety in the wake of fukushima nuclear accident [keynote address]

Nuclear energy now provides roughly 11 percent of the world´s electricity and 39 percent of global non-fossil fueled electric power generation. However, in spite of its impressive safety record since its commercial use in the 1950s, one can find some level of opposition to nuclear power everywhere it is used. There are risks associated with any electricity generation source. The use of coal, for example, has caused more human and environmental damage than nuclear energy. Under the current circumstances, when most renewable sources are still intermittent and not suitable for generating base-load power, the loss of nuclear power would mean increase of fossil fuels, leading to additional greenhouse gas emissions, which is a prospect we cannot afford to face. We should strike a balance between energy needs, economic growth, and safety and sustainability as each energy portfolio has its trade-offs.