Hide / Show Abstract

Strategic and Policy Issues Raised by the Transition from Thermal to Fast Nuclear Systems

The renewed interest in nuclear energy triggered by concerns about global climate change and security of supply could lead to substantial growth in nuclear electricity generation and expanded interest in fast neutron reactors with closed fuel cycles. Moving from the current fleet of thermal neutron reactors to fast neutron systems will require many decades and extensive RD&D efforts. This book identifies and analyses key strategic and policy issues raised by such a transition, and provides guidance to decision makers on the best approaches for implementing transition scenarios.

Publication Date :: 07 Apr 2009
DOI :: 10.1787/9789264060654-en

Chapter

Transition Scenarios in Perspective

Authors:: OECD, Nuclear Energy Agency


Pages :: 19–32
DOI :: 10.1787/9789264060654-4-en

Hide / Show Abstract

This chapter provides background information on the overall context of transition scenario design and implementation. The first section gives illustrative scenarios to serve as a backdrop for assessing the relevance of transition scenarios in a global energy supply perspective. The second section is a short overview on nuclear reactor and fuel cycle technology developments expected in the coming decades, indicating the types of nuclear systems which could be implemented when transitioning from thermal to fast neutron reactors.

Also available in: French