Evaluation of the problems associated with ENEL's irradiated fuel management

The present difficulties in the reprocessing field, wich will continue for a period of time not easily definable, impose on the nuclear utilities the research of adequate solutions to solve the problem associated with storage of the fuels discharged by the nuclear power stations in operation. In this context, the paper examines the technical aspects of the various possible alternatives and on the basis of the Italian nuclear program, possible storage strategies are discussed in the assumption of the development of an adequate oxide-fuel reprocessing capacity. The problems related to storage in pools at the station or away from reactor are described in the light of the recent experience made in Italy with the adaptation of an old pool reactor out of service, that is, the Avogadro reactor in Saluggia, to store the fuels of the stations now in operation. Finally some economic aspects are considered in order to ascertain their impact on the cost of energy produced. (author)