How realistic is it for the UK government to think nuclear power has a role to play in plugging the energy gap?

Introduction
In recent years there has been much debate about the energy gap in the UK. According to Black (2005) the “energy gap” is the shortfall of fossil oil, natural gas and other fossil fuels, and this phenomenon is due to there is an increase trend for the need of fuels in Britain.

However, we must face the phenomenon that fossil fuels will run out in the near future. Due to this energy gap, we need to look for alternative sources of energy, and the UK government wants to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, so they believe that nuclear power can close the energy gap. However, critics have pointed out the dangers of using nuclear power.

This report will examine how realistic the UK government is being in believing that nuclear power can successfully close the energy gap. It will begin with a literature review highlighting the main advantages and disadvantages of using nuclear power. Next the key issues will be analysed and discuss. Finally, a conclusion will be drawn.

Literature Review
One of the main arguments in favour of using nuclear power to close the UK energy gap is that are 70 per cent of our low-carbon electricity comes from nuclear energy in UK. (Nuclear Industry Association, 2012) In addition, the Nuclear Industry Association (2012) have showed the nuclear stations reduce 7% to 14% of greenhouse gas emissions in the UK, and this process result in 40 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions be avoided a year. Moreover, according to Chief Executive Keith Parker (2012) in the UK nuclear power will supply clean, safe and affordable electricity for our homes, schools, hospitals and industries.

However, critics argue that using nuclear energy is not a good way to close the energy gap. For one thing that E.ON