tuumajõu

Tuumajõud is the Estonian term for nuclear power, referring to electricity generated by nuclear reactors. It denotes the use of nuclear fission to produce heat, which is then converted into electrical energy. In a typical reactor, fissile material such as enriched uranium-235 or plutonium-239 sustains a controlled chain reaction. The heat from fission is removed by a coolant, producing steam that drives turbines connected to generators. Control rods regulate the reaction by absorbing neutrons, and safety systems plus containment structures aim to limit radiation release.

Fuel cycles involve uranium mining and milling, conversion, enrichment, and fuel fabrication. Spent fuel remains highly radioactive and is treated as high-level waste; some fuel can be reprocessed, while disposal typically involves deep geological repositories in many countries.

Advantages of tuumajõud include low direct emissions during operation, high energy density, and the ability to provide continuous baseload power. Disadvantages and challenges include the handling of radioactive waste, high capital costs, safety and security risks, and the long-term task of decommissioning plants after their lifetime.

Globally, nuclear power accounts for roughly a tenth of electricity generation, with reactors in countries such as the United States, France, China, Russia, and several European nations. Public and policy debates on tuumajõud often center on environmental impact, safety, climate goals, and energy security, influencing decisions on expansion, modernization, or phase-out in different regions.

In Estonia, tuumajõud does not currently power the national grid. The country continues to rely on a mix of imports and domestic energy sources, with nuclear options discussed within broader energy-policy discussions.