The unintended effects from halting nuclear power production: Evidence from Fukushima Daiichi accident

Matthew Neidell*, Shinsuke Uchida, Marcella Veronesi

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal articleResearchpeer-review

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Abstract

This paper provides novel evidence of the unintended health effects stemming from the halt in nuclear power production after the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident. After the accident, nuclear power stations ceased operation and nuclear power was replaced by fossil fuels, causing an increase in electricity prices. We find that this increase led to a reduction in energy consumption, which caused an increase in mortality during very cold temperatures, given the protective role that climate control plays against the elements. Our results contribute to the debate surrounding the use of nuclear as a source of energy by documenting a yet unexplored health benefit from using nuclear power, and more broadly to regulatory policy approaches implemented during periods of scientific uncertainty about potential adverse effects.
Original languageEnglish
Article number102507
JournalJournal of Health Economics
Volume79
ISSN0167-6296
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2021

Keywords

  • Mortality
  • Temperature
  • Nuclear energy
  • Energy prices
  • Precautionary principle
  • Fukushima Daiichi accident

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