In other parts of the world, nuclear energy is a growing source of electrical power. Nuclear energy now provides about 17 percent of the world's electricity. The United States, France, Japan, and Germany are the world leaders in producing electricity from nuclear power. France gets 75 percent of its electricity from nuclear power. Licensing Nuclear Power Plants Nuclear power plants must obtain a permit to start construction and, later, a license to begin operation.
Researchers conduct many studies to find the best site for a nuclear power plant.
Detailed plans and reports are submitted to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the federal government agency responsible for licensing nuclear power plants and overseeing their construction and operation. When the builders of a nuclear power plant apply for a license, local hearings are held so people can testify and air their concerns and opinions. After a plant is built, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission places inspectors at the site to assure the plant is operating properly. The cost of producing electricity from nuclear energy is somewhat higher than the cost of producing electricity from coal. Building a nuclear power plant is very expensive because of the high costs of licensing, construction, and inspection.