By Elizabeth Muller, Co-Founder & CEO, Deep Fission
As energy demands continue to surge and the U.S. grapples with the pressing need to move toward clean, reliable energy sources, we often find ourselves caught in political gridlock. The debate over the right energy path has become a divisive topic in this country with advocates of renewables on one side and defenders of fossil fuels on the other. One issue, however, has emerged as a rare, bipartisan solution that both sides of the aisle can agree on: nuclear energy.
With Americans heading to the polls tomorrow, it’s clear that both Vice President Harris and former President Trump recognize the crucial role nuclear power will play in America’s energy future. The power source will be vital for tackling climate change, ensuring energy security, driving economic growth, and providing equitable access to power nationwide. Let’s take a closer look at why atomic power is an essential piece of the clean energy puzzle.
It’s the Climate, Stupid!
Nuclear energy is already a cornerstone of America’s energy system, supplying 20% of the nation’s electricity and nearly half of its carbon-free power. Unlike solar and wind, nuclear isn’t weather-dependent, or intermittent, and, unlike fossil fuels, it is a zero-emission energy source. Given the urgency of addressing the climate crisis, relying solely on renewables to replace fossil fuels would be nearly impossible within the necessary timeframe.
Additionally,nuclear power is one of the most efficient energy sources on the planet, operating at over 90% capacity the majority of the time, ensuring around-the-clock power. It also doesn’t require thousands of acres of land to operate and isn’t dependent on resource-intensive materials such as lithium, which can be difficult to mine and harmful to the environment.
As the U.S. transitions toward a low-carbon future and aims to meet ambitious climate goals, it is clear that nuclear is the only scalable, green energy source capable of consistently supporting the grid. Its high efficiency and ability to provide continuous, reliable power make it an indispensable part of the green transition.
Energy and National Security
Beyond its environmental benefits, nuclear energy is also imperative for national security. By producing power domestically, it reduces America’s reliance on foreign oil and gas, insulating the country from volatile global markets and geopolitical risks, such as the conflict in the Middle East.
As we witnessed during the pandemic, disruptions in global energy supplies can have far-reaching economic and political consequences. Nuclear power offers a stable, homegrown energy source that won’t be interrupted by international events.
Jobs, Jobs, Jobs
Nuclear energy also presents an opportunity to drive economic growth and create high-paying jobs. It already contributes $60 billion annually to the U.S. economy, and supports nearly a half a million jobs throughout the country.
The development of advanced nuclear technologies, such as small modular reactors (SMRs), requires skilled workers in a variety of fields. These are well-compensated jobs that can be distributed across a wide geographic area, providing economic opportunities in regions that have seen declines in recent years.
Both candidates recognize the potential for atomic energy to contribute to job creation, especially in parts of the country that have been impacted by the loss of coal or manufacturing plants. Investing in nuclear power will breathe new life into these communities, spur innovation, and keep America at the forefront of global energy technology.
Addressing Energy Inequality
Nuclear energy also holds tremendous potential to bridge gaps in energy access and affordability, especially in underserved communities. Historically, low-income areas have faced significant barriers to affordable electricity, with some households spending over 10% of their income on energy costs. These regions also tend to be the most vulnerable to extreme weather events and power outages, heightening the need for resilient, reliable energy.
Additionally, next-generation nuclear power can be deployed in a variety of settings, from urban centers to remote areas, enabling clean and affordable energy access where it’s needed most. By building nuclear infrastructure in these areas, we can create local jobs, stabilize energy costs, and ensure that all Americans, regardless of background or location, have access to reliable, essential electricity. Nuclear energy has the potential to be a powerful tool in creating energy equity, supporting a fairer energy future for all.
A Unified Path Forward
As someone who has dedicated their career to nuclear energy and environmental issues, now is the time for policymakers, businesses, and the American public to seize this unique moment of consensus and accelerate the development of advanced nuclear technologies.
At Deep Fission, we are committed to making nuclear power more accessible, safe, and affordable by placing reactors a mile underground.
Atomic energy isn’t a partisan issue, it’s an American issue. With support across the political spectrum, it’s time to fully embrace the power source as an essential part of a sustainable energy future.
And if you haven’t already, please get out and VOTE!
