Topic:
Country: United States
Delegate Name: Ricardo Pastor
The United States, as one of the world’s largest producers and consumers of nuclear energy, recognizes its responsibility and potential to contribute to the global transition to a low-carbon energy future. With its 93 nuclear reactors, which provide about 20 percent of its electricity generation, the United States has demonstrated that nuclear energy can be a safe, reliable, and clean source of power that can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance energy security.
The United States is committed to advancing the development and deployment of new nuclear technologies that can improve nuclear energy efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. The US government has allocated significant funding and regulatory support for research and innovation in small modular reactors and Generation IV nuclear reactors, promising new technologies that can offer greater flexibility, scalability, and sustainability for nuclear power plants.
The United States also believes that international cooperation is essential for promoting the use of nuclear energy both domestically and internationally. The US is a party to several bilateral and multilateral agreements on nuclear energy cooperation, such as the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and the Generation IV International Forum (GIF). Through these platforms, the US shares its expertise and best practices in nuclear energy production and safety standards with other countries while also advocating for the revision of safety guidelines to ensure that they reflect the latest scientific knowledge and technological advancements.
The US also supports the efforts of emerging markets to adopt nuclear energy as part of their low-carbon energy mix. The US provides technical assistance, capacity building, financing options, and policy advice to countries interested in developing or expanding their nuclear power programs. The US also encourages these countries to adhere to high safety, security, non-proliferation, and environmental protection standards when pursuing nuclear energy.
The United States firmly believes nuclear energy can be critical in reducing fossil fuel reliance and achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The US calls on all Member States to join us in investing in advanced nuclear technologies and fostering international collaboration on nuclear energy issues. Together, we can harness the power of nuclear energy for a more sustainable future.