Recognizing the need for a substantial increase in clean energy supply to meet both growing demands and carbon dioxide reduction objectives, the Group of Eight (G8) leaders are expected to reach an agreement on commercial nuclear energy at an upcoming climate change summit next week in Japan. The initiative will focus on three principles to increase international transparency and reduce concerns about a global nuclear renaissance: nonproliferation, safety, and nuclear security. The draft states,

Recognizing that ensuring safeguards (nuclear nonproliferation), nuclear safety and nuclear security (3S) forms a sound basis for international transparency and confidence in the sustainable development of nuclear power, we agree on a G8 initiative to assist countries in ensuring 3s.”

As the U.S. deliberates about the possibility of building new nuclear power, other nations have already begun the process. Worldwide, over thirty reactors in twelve countries are already under construction; 90 reactors in total are planned and over 200 more have been proposed, according to the World Nuclear Association.

The Heritage Foundation will release a paper this week that details the reasons why nuclear power is taking off internationally and what the United States can learn from these countries. The paper focuses on energy independence, environmental concerns, economic competitiveness, and meeting demands for higher energy.