In an increasingly electricity-hungry world, nuclear power stands out as a cornerstone for sustainable economic growth, particularly for developing economies like South Africa. This article explores the economic rationale behind nuclear power adoption for electricity, emphasizing the Pebble Bed Modular Reactor (PBMR) and Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technologies as a catalyst for industrial and economic growth that is a lifeline out of poverty and instability.

Countries with fossil fuels should continue to use electricity available from High-Efficiency Low Emissions (HELE) coal, oil, and gas power sources in conjunction with nuclear power to achieve a balanced output and maximise economic growth. Drawing from detailed economic research performed over decades, we highlight why electricity from nuclear is essential for economic stability, job creation, and global competitiveness.

In a world where reliable and sustainable electricity sources are crucial, poorer developing countries are spearheading the shift towards nuclear power.  The transition to nuclear power generation is driven by the need for dependable, emissions-free electricity to meet the growing demand, particularly highlighted by the increasing requirements of data centres and AI globally. Both electricity and technology are vital for the inevitable transition towards more efficient human systems.

Electricity sources like solar and wind suffer from intermittency, requiring 100% backup capacity, which undermines their reliability. Nuclear power, however, offers a stable, dispatchable, and low-emission alternative, making it a critical component of a balanced electricity mix alongside High-Efficiency Low-Emissions (HELE) coal.

For South Africa, a nation battling unemployment (over 30%) and poverty (affecting 55% of its population), electricity choices........

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