Nuclear research centres in the 21st century: The French perspective

In France the reactor technology is mature and R and D needs for reactors are small. However, there are substantial R and D needs in the electro-nuclear field. These include optimization of operation of nuclear power plants and the associated factories and to have a long term vision for the nuclear technologies. The State continues to be a major provider of resources for the long term strategic objectives. However, lack of resources has resulted in shutting down of some large facilities and it is becoming difficult to refurbish some large experimental tools. The possibility of earning resources through solving complex problems beyond the nuclear field is, therefore, under exploration. Nuclear research centres are also looking into new advanced technologies (energy, micro electronics, materials, bio-technology) and for development of partnership with other public research organisations. The issue of preservation of expertise is being addressed by development of networks between the European centres working in the same field. Cost and risk sharing of nuclear R and D is being pursued by collaboration with countries outside Europe, namely the USA, Japan and China. Public perception of nuclear energy is being enhanced by opening CEA centres to the public. (author)