Sabine Hossenfelder’s recent YouTube video dives into the intriguing developments surrounding small nuclear reactors, particularly those powered by thorium, and critiques Germany’s decision to phase out nuclear energy. The video not only highlights technological advancements but also questions the rationale behind abandoning nuclear power in the face of pressing energy and environmental challenges.

Germany’s Nuclear Stance: A Questionable Move

Hossenfelder opens with a bold statement: phasing out nuclear energy is one of the most ill-advised decisions made by Germany. She contrasts this with historical references, emphasizing that Germany’s current government may lack the foresight needed for strategic energy planning. This critique gains weight when compared to neighboring countries like France and the Netherlands, which are actively investing in nuclear technologies, including innovative thorium-fueled reactors.

The Thorium Revolution

At the heart of the video is the partnership between French company Naarea and Dutch startup Thorizon. Together, they aim to develop thorium-fueled small modular reactors (SMRs). These reactors, praised for their scalability and efficiency, could revolutionize the energy sector:

• Thorium’s Advantages: Thorium is three to four times more abundant than uranium and can be used almost entirely, unlike uranium, which utilizes only a small fraction of its potential. This makes thorium reactors more efficient and sustainable.

• Molten Salt Technology: These reactors use liquid fuel rather than solid rods, improving safety and reducing risks associated with overheating. Modern designs feature passive safety systems, ensuring that in the event of a failure, the reactor safely shuts down without human intervention.

• Industrial Applications: The focus on industrial energy solutions bypasses the complexity of integrating SMRs into public grids. Factories could plug into these reactors, reducing carbon footprints and improving energy efficiency by directly utilizing reactor heat.

Challenges and Opportunities

While thorium reactors offer numerous benefits, there are challenges. Since there’s no dedicated thorium mining industry, scaling production might pose commercial hurdles. Additionally, despite significant safety improvements, nuclear technology continues to face public skepticism due to its perceived risks.

Germany’s Missed Bus?

Hossenfelder argues that Germany’s refusal to invest in nuclear energy is a missed opportunity. Modern nuclear technologies, including SMRs, could address Germany’s energy needs while contributing to climate goals. By ignoring advancements in reactor safety and sustainability, Germany risks falling behind as other nations harness nuclear power to decarbonize their industries.

A Call for Reflection

Hossenfelder concludes with a direct appeal to German policymakers: reconsider nuclear energy. As energy demands grow and climate challenges intensify, innovative solutions like small thorium reactors deserve attention—not dismissal.

This thought-provoking video invites us to reevaluate nuclear energy’s role in a sustainable future. For Germany and beyond, the question remains: will we embrace the promise of new nuclear technologies, or let opportunities slip by in the pursuit of less effective alternatives?