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When do we run out of uranium? How much is used per year? How much is in stock piles? How much is in deposits that we can afford to extract?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on various factors such as the rate of consumption, new discoveries, and technological advancements. However, according to current estimates, there is enough uranium to last for another 100 years.
The amount of uranium used per year varies depending on the global demand for nuclear energy. As of 2021, approximately 69,000 metric tons of uranium were used worldwide.
The main factors that affect the rate of uranium consumption include the demand for nuclear energy, the number of nuclear power plants in operation, advancements in nuclear technology, and the availability of alternative energy sources.
No, it is highly unlikely that we will completely run out of uranium. While the current known reserves may be depleted in the future, new discoveries and advancements in technology may allow us to access previously inaccessible sources of uranium.
If we were to completely run out of uranium, it would have a significant impact on the global energy industry. It could potentially lead to an increase in the use of alternative energy sources, such as renewable energy, and a decrease in the use of nuclear energy. It could also have economic and political implications, as many countries rely on nuclear energy for their electricity needs.