Requirements and expectations from innovative nuclear reactors: Turkey's perspective

Full text: After the postponement of Akkuyu NPP project in 2000 due to economical reasons, Turkish Atomic Energy Authority (TAEK) commenced a review of national nuclear policy of the country. In the announcement of the postponement Government stated that Turkey's interest to nuclear reactors would continue and Turkey might utilize new generation nuclear reactors in the future. It was also stated that Turkey is willing to participate and contribute to the development of new reactors. In view of these statements and recent developments in the energy sector, TAEK outlined the requirements and expectations regarding new nuclear reactors and decided to participate in some ongoing international studies for the development of innovative reactors. Some of the requirements determined by TAEK are: a) low capital and low electricity generation costs; b) short construction period; c) short licensing period; d) enhanced safety; e) utilization of proven technology; f) environmentally friendly design; g) suitability for public acceptance; h) utilization of indigenous resources; i) and suitability for hydrogen production, desalination and process heat. Studies for the determination of new nuclear policy are continuing. (author)