Abstract:

Since our planet is subject to global warning, which could significantly alter living conditions on Earth, the aim of energy policies would be to stabilise greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at no more than double the pre-industrialisation value. With a likely increase in global energy consumption by a factor of 2 to 3 in the first half of the 21st century, this implies that in 2050 carbon-free resources must contribute to total commercial energy supply by 60 to 70% compared to about 14% today. Emission abatement analysis shows that mankind has a decade or two to undertake the R&D necessary to evaluate the opportunities for expanding the use of present carbon- free energy alternatives. All options available for freeing energy use from carbon emissions should be subjected to thorough research. In the long run, carbon-free nuclear fission could become indispensable to allow for climate- beneficial energy production and economic growith and development. Research should therefore be intensified to further address the problems of radioactive waste, reactor safety and nuclear proliferation.

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