Conditions necessary for the deployment of new nuclear plants - What will it take?

In the 1970s and 1980s, throughout North America, Europe and several parts of Asia, there was wide development and deployment of nuclear power. In this paper we focus on the North American market but noting the international implications. In Canada the drivers for this deployment were the possibility of safe, reliable, economic power, which was independent of imported fossil fuels. We stress, and it is interesting and important to note, that many of those drivers for building new plants in the 70s are still valid today. Simply stated, the challenge is for the nuclear industry to convince both investors and the public that new nuclear can meet the safety, reliability and cost requirements. Therefore, cheap, safe, reliable and medium sized nuclear power alternatives are needed to meet the economic and performance targets in the competitive power market of tomorrow. The paper addresses why the subject of new nuclear plants is again being considered in North America. The key factors leading to large-scale development of new reactors are proposed. These factors are: Excellent performance of existing plants; Competitive economics; Flexibility in introduction and plant size; Reducing the time to market; Reduced risk in the project approval process; Optimised site use; Public acceptance; and Emphasizing strategic benefits. If these factors can be positively addressed then within 10 years it is possible to resurrect the nuclear plant supply business in North America and see a significant number of new SMRs being ordered. (author)