The Coalition says its nuclear plants will run for 100 years. What does the international experience tell us?

Construction of England’s Hinkley Point C nuclear power station, which has experienced rounds of delays and could have final costs approaching $90bn. The Coalition’s nuclear plan involves building seven reactors in Australia. Photograph: Kin Cheung/AP

The federal Coalition’s pledge to build nuclear reactors on seven sites in five states if elected has continued to raise questions this week.

Ted O’Brien, the shadow energy minister, says the plants can operate for between 80 and 100 years, providing “cheaper, cleaner and consistent 24/7 electricity” compared with renewables.