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5 - Nuclear Energy

from Technologies for Decarbonising the Electricity Sector

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  08 October 2021

By
Andrew Stuchbery  and
Tony Irwin
Edited by
Kenneth G. H. Baldwin ,
Mark Howden ,
Michael H. Smith ,
Karen Hussey  and
Peter J. Dawson
Kenneth G. H. Baldwin
Affiliation:
Australian National University, Canberra
Mark Howden
Affiliation:
Australian National University, Canberra
Michael H. Smith
Affiliation:
Australian National University, Canberra
Karen Hussey
Affiliation:
University of Queensland
Peter J. Dawson
Affiliation:
P. J. Dawson & Associates
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Summary

Nuclear power is a proven low greenhouse emission technology for electricity production that directly substitutes for fossil fuels. The current status of nuclear power worldwide is reviewed. Nuclear technology is described, beginning with an overview of the nuclear fuel cycle and the basic science of fission and energy production. The technology of nuclear fuel production, including enrichment, is outlined. Reactor technology alternatives are discussed in terms of both the current world fleet of reactor types and the future Generation IV technology to be deployed beyond 2030. The current status of small modular reactors (SMRs) under development is reviewed. SMRs are suitable for small countries or remote sites and have smaller up-front construction costs. The thorium cycle is seen as a potential technology for deployment towards the end of the century. Strategies for nuclear waste management and reactor decommissioning are described. Government, legal, regulatory and managerial support is needed to comply with internationally accepted safety standards, security guidelines and safeguards requirements. An independent nuclear regulatory organisation is essential.

Keywords

Nuclear energyThoriumSmall Modular ReactorGeneration IV reactorsDecommissioningNuclear waste
Type
Chapter
Information
Transitioning to a Prosperous, Resilient and Carbon-Free Economy
A Guide for Decision-Makers
 , pp. 105 - 124
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2021

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