Laka Foundation

Publication Laka-library:
Nuclear power in the OECD (2001)

AuthorNEA, IEA
Date2001
Classification 6.01.0.20/119 (IMPORTANCE WORLDWIDE)
Front

From the publication:

This comprehensive overview explores the policy issues and other factors affecting 
the future of nuclear power in OECD countries. It provides a wealth of historical 
and current information of interest to both energy industry professionals and policy 
makers.

Nuclear power has grown steadily since the early 1960s. Today it provides one 
quarter of OECD electricity supply from 300 GWe capacity. It is an important 
contributor to OECD energy security. Existing nuclear plants appear ready to meet 
the challenges of electricity market competition. The industry has experienced 
sustained improvements in technical and economic performance. A major advantage 
of nuclear power is that it produces none of the airborne pollutants or carbon 
dioxide that fossil-fuelled plants do.

Nonetheless, nuclear power must cope with many challenges. New nuclear plants 
face formidable competition from fossil fuel generation, given nuclear power's high 
capital cost and today's fossil fuel prices. Almost half of OECD countries have placed 
restrictions on building nuclear power plants. Disposal facilities for high-level 
wastes are under development, but face technical and political hurdles before they 
can become operational.

Can nuclear power meet these challenges and thrive in future energy markets? Or 
will its contribution to energy supply ebb in coming years? This book provides a 
critical assessment of the issues that will shape the answers to these questions.

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