Nuclear Power in the UK – An Overview Simon Clare Representing British Nuclear Fuels plc/BNFL Japan K.K.

 

In view of some of the high level challenges that we in the nuclear industry is facing, the industry must deliver not only the technology, but deliver the messages and the product to:

·         demonstrate convincingly current and future safety to the public and regulators;

·         demonstrate security against weapon proliferation;

·         demonstrate lower environmental impact than other base-load power sources;

·         show effective use of strategic resources;

·         show adequate provision and capability for redundant plant dismantling; and

·         demonstrate better value for money than competing energy suppliers.

 

Energy policy must be based on a considered balance between immediate and longer-term interests.  In practice it is likely to depend on establishing a balance between supply pricing and the detrimental cost that society places on environmental factors and resource depletion. The results and indeed the basis of comparison between nuclear and other sources, established or alternative, are matters of controversy unsuited to discussion here. What is beyond doubt is the need to reduce costs throughout the fuel cycle and demonstrate safety and environmental performance.

 

This presentation covers some of the key issues concerning the nuclear industry in the UK in the light of a forward looking Energy Policy which aims to ensure provision of an energy supply for the UK out to 2050, which:

-                      is generated safely;

-                      is secure and reliable;

-                      meets environmental objectives;

-                     is affordable.