AUS
NZ
UK
CA
USA
FRA
GER
ESP
ITA
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IND
POL
BRA
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RUS
CHN
UAE
Highlights
- Australia may align with UK and US on nuclear and decarbonisation efforts.
- Agreement aims to triple global nuclear capacity by 2050.
- Advanced modular reactors expected to support heavy industry decarbonisation.
Australia is exploring a potential partnership with the United Kingdom and United States in advancing nuclear energy and decarbonisation efforts. Discussions intensified during the COP29 summit in Baku, where UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband and US Deputy Secretary of Energy David Turk signed a pivotal agreement. This agreement seeks to accelerate the deployment of advanced nuclear technologies, crucial for decarbonising industries and enhancing global energy security.
The agreement includes a multi-billion-dollar commitment to nuclear research and development, involving leading academic institutions and nuclear innovators. It builds upon a pro-nuclear accord signed by 31 countries at COP28, aiming to triple global nuclear energy capacity by 2050. Advanced technologies, including small modular reactors (SMRs), are expected to be available by 2030.
While the UK and US have made significant strides, Australia's stance on nuclear energy remains uncertain. UK Energy Secretary Miliband expressed optimism about Australia aligning with the nuclear initiatives, highlighting the UK’s progress in advanced reactor programs and its Great British Nuclear’s SMR competition. Miliband emphasized the importance of nuclear energy in achieving a clean energy future, citing its role in decarbonising industries and supporting economic growth.
Australia’s position, however, is complicated by its current energy policies. Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles reiterated the Australian government’s view that nuclear energy is too costly and time-consuming compared to renewable energy options. Despite these reservations, Australia remains a key ally, and its Energy Minister Chris Bowen participated in the Baku discussions. The participation indicates potential openness to exploring advanced nuclear technologies as part of broader decarbonisation efforts.
The Generation IV International Forum (GIF), effective from March 1, 2025, is another significant step in advancing nuclear technology globally. According to the UK-US agreement, advanced modular reactors are set to revolutionize heavy industries like aviation fuel production, hydrogen generation, and advanced steel manufacturing. These reactors, designed to provide low-carbon heat and power, are smaller, more efficient, and factory-produced, enabling quicker and cost-effective deployment.
Key countries expected to join the UK-US nuclear alliance include Canada, France, Japan, South Korea, South Africa, China, and Switzerland. Notably, Russia will be excluded from the agreement. As Australia deliberates its involvement, the global push for nuclear technology underscores its growing role in achieving net-zero emissions and addressing climate change challenges.
