Towards a rebirth of nuclear energy?

Two new elements have led several countries to reconsider the nuclear question: the CO2 problem and the depletion of fossil fuel resources. In parallel, some countries are less optimistic about the capacity of nuclear energy to play a major role in CO2-free energy generation. Based on present and future arguments, they recall that nuclear electricity represents only 2% of the end energies consumed worldwide, and considering the limited uranium resources, its perspectives will not exceed the half of the century. This short article takes stock of this question under the light of the present day situation and of the perspectives of development of nuclear power: nuclear energy development today, expected development from now to 2030, overview of nuclear projects worldwide, estimations at the 2050 prospects, stakes of fast breeder reactors. (J.S.)