The environmental aspects of nuclear power generation in Iran were evaluated in this article. Rapid population growth and demand for the better standard of living in Iran leads to the considerable increase of electricity consumption in next decades. The electrical energy demand in 1430, will requires an installed capacity of around 120000 MW. In some countries, electrical energy is primarily provided from nuclear energy. Nuclear power generation emits virtually no greenhouse gases. Statistical calculations showed that 10 and 20 percent nuclear electricity generation in 1400 will reduce CO2 emissions from the energy sector of Iran, just in that year, by about 9.3 and 18.6 percent, respectively. External costs of electricity generation in Iran have been not evaluated. External costs of nuclear electricity generation were evaluated in this research. This study showed that nuclear technology is one of the safest and cheapest mean to generate electricity. In attempting to achieve sustainable development, potential of different energy technologies contributing to social risks and climate change ought to be considered. Nuclear electricity generation will play an important role in achieving sustainable development goals in Iran.
Key words: Nuclear Electricity, CO2 emission, External Costs, Sustainable Development
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