Fighting it out in world markets

Candu reactors have a modest 6% of free-market installed nuclear capacity, compared with 86% for light water reactors (LWR). Proponents of Candu nevertheless believe in its advantages. Capacity factors of Candu reactors have traditionally been about 10% higher, but LWR are catching up. An Ontario study, and Korean experience, show that total electricity costs are significantly lower for Candu, despite the extra capital cost of heavy water. The use of pressure tubes, and a large volume of separately cooled heavy water moderator, is perceived as a safety advantage. Radiation doses to personnel have been lower for Canadian than for U.S. reactors. AECL is now trying to sell 300 to 400 MW reactors in addition to its 600 MW line. Standardization, as practised by Framatome, is the ideal