Introduction to the Nuclear Sector: Delivering nuclear projects safely and successfully

What is nuclear energy?

Nuclear energy is produced through a process called nuclear fission, where the nucleus of an atom, typically uranium or plutonium, is split to release a large amount of heat. This heat is used to generate steam, which drives turbines to produce electricity. Unlike fossil fuels, nuclear power plants emit almost no greenhouse gases during operation.

One small amount of nuclear fuel can produce an enormous amount of energy, making nuclear power one of the most efficient energy sources available today.

The future of nuclear energy

As the world transitions toward cleaner energy, nuclear power is increasingly seen as a necessary part of the solution. While renewable sources like wind and solar are growing rapidly, nuclear energy provides the stability and scale needed to support a low-carbon grid. In addition to fission, research is underway into nuclear fusion, a process that fuses atomic nuclei and has the potential to provide abundant low-carbon energy in the future. With continued innovation, transparent regulation and public engagement, nuclear projects will play a major role in building a sustainable and secure energy future.

Project management in the nuclear sector

Project management in the nuclear sector demands an exceptional level of rigor, integration and long-term vision. Unlike conventional infrastructure projects, nuclear programs operate under intense regulatory scrutiny (and rightly so), requiring project managers to align engineering, safety, quality and licensing activities from concept through construction, commissioning and operation. Effective governance, robust risk and change management, and precise scheduling are essential to control cost overruns and delays, which are common in large nuclear builds. Equally critical is the coordination of a highly specialised supply chain and a diverse set of stakeholders, including regulators, utilities, suppliers and the public.

Above all, nuclear project management is anchored in a strong safety culture, where decision-making prioritises nuclear safety and quality over schedule pressure, ensuring long-term operational reliability and public trust.

Some large-scale nuclear projects that are currently in delivery, highlight how diverse and active the sector currently is, from Sizewell C, to newer technology such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) to long-term agreements for nuclear power submarines such as AUKUS (UK/US technology supporting Australia) to managing and safely disposing nuclear waste.

The nuclear sector truly is an exciting sector to be a apart of, so whether you are an active professional working in the sector or just simply wanting to learn and expand your knowledge, or just connect with like-minded professionals to learn/share your expertise, come and join the APM’s new Nuclear Interest Group.