Advantages of the regional nuclear energy system and conditions for realizing it

The realization of the so-called regional nuclear system (RNES) affords the possibility of reducing the risk of plutonium proliferation and solves the majority of problems associated with the disposal of radioactive wastes produced in nuclear power plants. Within the RNES the most dangerous components (such as fast reactors, reprocessing plant etc.) should be concentrated in a few countries bearing increased responsibility for the nuclear energy issue while in other co-operating countries nuclear power plants with thermal reactors should be constructed now and in the future. Such a RNES, based primarily on safety and economic considerations, would be justified only if it can be realized as a so-called Mixed Nuclear Energy System at Fuel Equilibrium (MNESFE), which at least ensures the same efficiency in the utilization of natural uranium reserves as that in a nuclear power plant system consisting of fast reactors alone. This paper demonstrates the possibility of realizing the MNESFE, and presents its characteristics in relation to the different types of thermal and fast reactor. The paper analyses in detail the optimal composition of the MNESFE and also the effects of different fuel-cycle conditions. The conclusions of the paper consider the conditions for realizing RNES on an international basis. (author)