EU must support extended use of reactors, says Foratom

摘要

Foratom, the European nuclear trade body, has called on the European Commission and other EU institutions to recognise and reward the long-term operation (LTO) of nuclear power reactors in their role to help Europe meet its climate targets. There are 126 operational power reactors in 14 EU Member States, providing more than one-quarter of the bloc's total electricity production. In its Communication on the Nuclear Illustrative Program (PINC) published last year, the European Commission expects nuclear to maintain its significant role in Europe's energy mix up to 2050. This would require investment of some €40-50 billion ($46-58 billion) in nuclear LTO by 2050. However, the Commission has warned that as many as 50 reactors in the EU are at risk of early closure over the next ten years, assuming their operators do not pursue LTO licences. Foratom Director General Yves Desbazeille said: "If the European Union wants to meet its climate goals, nuclear LTO will play an indispensable role in the EU's future energy mix. Therefore, the EU institutions should recognise and reward it with incentives for the benefits it brings to the system."