Life management of ageing nuclear power plants. Technical, economic and political aspects

The life of a nuclear power plant can be estimated in a number of different ways depending on whether one takes a technical/engineering, accountancy or political perspective. Nuclear power plants, built with higher standards of safety than other types of power plants, can and do continue to operate economically and safely well beyond their originally planned lifetime. This article explores the factors influencing ageing of nuclear power plants, and how plant life can be managed (or extended). A brief review of the state of United Kingdom plant status is presented together with an explanation of Long Term Safety Reviews. Upgrading and life extension of existing plants will, it is argued, become more important as non-renewable fuel supplies diminish. (UK)