Nuclear to 2030: up or down?

摘要

Despite its rapid expansion to date to become a major source of electricity in most major economic regions, the future position of nuclear electricity continues to face some uncertainty. The Fukushima accident of March 2011 has had an impact on the prospects for nuclear generation as reactors have been permanently shut down in Germany and Japan (Fukushima Daiichi 1-6) and slowdowns in programmes are happening elsewhere. The Fukushima accident has spurred improvements to design and to emergency response. It also highlighted the need to reinforce the independence of national nuclear authorities, and strengthen skills and best practices at a world level. Although it is still too early to assess the full impact, it is possible to make a few reasonable deductions as to the nature of these impacts.