Cost-Benefit Analysis of Nuclear Energy in Mexico: A Path Toward Sustainable Development and Energy Independence

This paper proposes the construction of a new AP1000 nuclear reactor in Mexico to address the growing energy demand and support the country’s clean energy goals. Using a Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA), the study compares the economic and environmental impacts of the AP1000 reactor with those of Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) plants. The analysis considers key factors such as capital expenditure (CAPEX), operational costs (OPEX), fuel costs, and decommissioning expenses, alongside the social discount rate (SDR). The results show that the AP1000 reactor, with a levelized cost of energy (LCOE) of $129.44/MWh, offers long-term economic benefits and significant reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared to CCGT plants, which have an adjusted LCOE of$113.19/MWh due to carbon emissions. The study highlights the potential of nuclear energy to contribute to Mexico’s energy independence and its commitment to the Paris Agreement and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The findings suggest that investing in nuclear technology is a viable strategy for achieving a sustainable and low-carbon energy future in Mexico, while addressing critical humanitarian challenges such as energy poverty, public health, and community development.