The Brazilian nuclear power programme: a case not proven

Energy demand in the less developed countries (LDCs) is sometimes estimated using a correlation between standard of living, population and energy consumption. Using this argument, it is possible to project a shortfall in conventional energy supply and thus derive a case for nuclear power in LDCs. Yet there seems no reason to suppose the LDCs will follow the pattern of energy use in the developed countries. The authors question the need for nuclear power in individual LDCs, with particular reference to Brazil. (author)