The article covers comparative growth dynamics of nuclear and renewable energy sectors since the 1960s. The indicators of environmental and cost efficiency, risks and prospects of power industry development based on different types of energy sources are evaluated. The paper demonstrates that reduction in the nuclear power industry share in the global energy balance cannot be sufficiently compensated by renewable sources of energy and leads to increased use of fossil fuels. The conclusion is made on the need for parallel development of renewable and nuclear energy sectors.

Key words: nuclear energy, renewable energy sources, energy policy.