Countries most affected in case of shut-down of Nuclear power.

Global Nuclear Energy Dependence

Several countries rely significantly on nuclear power for their electricity needs. These can be broadly categorized as:

• High Dependence (>30% of electricity from nuclear): France, Slovakia, Belgium, Ukraine, Switzerland, Sweden, Finland.
• Moderate Dependence (10-30%): USA, Canada, South Korea, Spain, Russia, UK, Japan.
• Low Dependence (<10%): China, India, Germany (phasing out), Italy.

Countries Most Affected by a Nuclear Shutdown

1. France

France is the most heavily reliant nation, generating approximately 70% of its electricity from nuclear power. A shutdown would lead to severe energy shortages, potentially impacting industries and households. France is also a major exporter of electricity to neighboring countries, so a disruption would have regional consequences. The economic impact would be substantial, requiring a rapid and expensive transition to alternative energy sources.

2. Ukraine

Before the war, Ukraine derived around 55% of its electricity from nuclear power. The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, Europe’s largest, is a critical component of its energy infrastructure. A complete shutdown, exacerbated by ongoing conflict, would create a massive energy crisis, hindering reconstruction efforts and impacting its industrial base. The current situation demonstrates the extreme vulnerability of relying on a single nuclear facility.

3. Belgium

Belgium generates around 50% of its electricity from nuclear power. Its aging nuclear reactors are scheduled for phased decommissioning, but a sudden shutdown before replacements are ready would lead to significant electricity price increases and potential supply disruptions. Belgium’s dense population and industrial economy make it particularly vulnerable.

4. Slovakia & Switzerland

Both Slovakia and Switzerland generate over 30% of their electricity from nuclear power. Their mountainous terrain limits the potential for large-scale hydropower development, and they lack significant fossil fuel reserves. A shutdown would necessitate increased reliance on imports, potentially from less reliable sources.

5. South Korea

South Korea relies on nuclear power for around 30% of its electricity. As a nation with limited natural resources, it heavily depends on imported energy. A nuclear shutdown would significantly increase its energy import bill and potentially impact its economic competitiveness. Public concerns regarding nuclear safety, following the Fukushima disaster, add another layer of complexity.

6. USA & Japan

The USA, with around 20% nuclear contribution, has a diversified energy mix and could absorb a shutdown, albeit with economic consequences. Japan, despite phasing out some plants post-Fukushima, still relies on nuclear for around 7%. A complete shutdown would necessitate increased reliance on fossil fuels, hindering its climate goals.

Geopolitical Implications

A widespread nuclear shutdown would also have significant geopolitical implications:

• Increased Fossil Fuel Demand: Leading to higher prices and potentially benefiting fossil fuel-producing nations.
• Energy Security Concerns: Exacerbating existing tensions and potentially leading to increased competition for energy resources.
• Impact on Climate Goals: Delaying the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Country	Nuclear Dependence (%)	Potential Impact of Shutdown
France	70	Severe energy shortages, economic disruption, regional electricity supply issues.
Ukraine	55	Massive energy crisis, hindered reconstruction, industrial decline.
Belgium	50	Electricity price increases, supply disruptions, economic strain.
South Korea	30	Increased energy import bill, economic competitiveness concerns.