Roadmaps to New Nuclear: Industry Urges Governments to Address Energy Security and Clean Electricity Needs

Strategic Insights -

The Nuclear Industry Association, along with other nuclear industry bodies, has issued a statement urging governments to take action to bolster energy security and address the rising global need for reliable, clean electricity. The Roadmaps to New Nuclear high-level conference in Paris highlighted the importance of long-term policies to facilitate new nuclear projects and support the entire nuclear value chain. The industry is calling for governments to prioritize the development of new nuclear technologies, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced technologies, to meet the increasing demand for clean energy. By taking bold steps to support the nuclear industry, governments can ensure a reliable and sustainable energy future.

Key Takeaways:

  • Governments need to ensure the Long-Term Operation of all existing nuclear reactors for which it is technically feasible.
  • Consistent and coherent long-term policies are required to facilitate new nuclear projects, including large reactors, SMRs, and Advanced technologies.
  • The nuclear industry requires support for the entire nuclear value chain, including mining, conversion, and enrichment, given the intention of many OECD countries to phase out Russian nuclear fuels and components.
  • Governments should apply technology neutrality to clean energy sources to achieve a successful expansion of the energy sector.
  • Bold steps should be taken to support the nuclear fuel cycle, including enabling access to public financing at national and multi-national levels.
  • A strong and collaborative nuclear supply chain is essential to maximize the OECD's potential to deliver new projects.
  • Greater design standardization is required to reduce costs and facilitate fleet deployment.
  • Stronger cooperation between regulators is necessary to facilitate the development of new nuclear technologies.

Statistics:

  • The number of existing nuclear reactors in operation worldwide is approximately 440 (Source: World Nuclear Association).
  • The OECD countries intend to phase out Russian nuclear fuels and components by [no specific date mentioned].
  • The global need for reliable, clean electricity will increase by [no specific percentage or date mentioned].

Sources:

  • Nuclear Industry Association, Roadmaps to New Nuclear Industry Statement, 19 September 2023
  • World Nuclear Association, World Nuclear Fuel Market, [no date mentioned]