Guidebook On The Introduction Of Nuclear Power

Provides a detailed introduction to nuclear reactors, describing the four commercial types and discussing uranium resources, fuel cycles, advanced reactor systems, and issues and problems concerning the use of nuclear power

The guidebook provides recommendations, based on the experience of both developed and developing countries, for upgrading or establishing national education and training capabilities in engineering and science in order to develop qualified personnel for nuclear power programmes. Special consideration has been given to the specific needs and conditions of developing countries.

The authors of this text aim to educate the reader on nuclear power and its future potential. It focuses on nuclear accidents such as Chernobyl and Three Mile Island, and their consequences, with the understanding that there are safety lessons to be learned if nuclear power generation is going to be expanded to meet our growing energy needs.

Interest in using nuclear energy for producing potable water has been growing around the world over the past ten years. This book provides guidance for decision makers on introducing nuclear desalination, and describes the steps involved in project implementation. The purpose is to facilitate the introduction of this technology and the sharing of resources amongst interested Member States.

This Guidebook constitutes a complement to a series of technical guidebooks: Technical Evaluation of Bids for Nuclear Power Plants, Technical Reports Series No. 204 (1981); Guidebook on the Introduction of Nuclear Power, Technical Reports Series No. 217 (1982); and Economic Evaluation of Bids for Nuclear Power Plants, 1999 Edition, Technical Reports Series No. 369 (2000). These provide, in particular, information on the process of plant acquisition and advice on the principal activities involved in the planning and implementation of nuclear power projects, as well as on the infrastructure requirements and development needs for the successful implementation of a nuclear power programme. These reports are directed to the special needs of developing countries.

This guidebook provides specific advice and guidance to project management for the construction of nuclear power plants. While operating performance of nuclear power plants has been improving in recent years and has generally been comparable to or better than that of fossil fired plants in the same size ranges, performance during construction has been variable. Although additional licensing requirements, public intervention and funding problems have been blamed for most of the delays and cost increases, there is growing recognition that lack of proper project management has been a major factor.