The future of the nuclear sector in Canada The future of nuclear power in many countries is uncertain, but in others the introduction or expansion of nuclear power programs are being implemented without excessive restrictions or limitations. The U.S., Japan, Belgium, Switzerland, Sweden, France and Germany are just some of the nations that have recently announced nuclear power plant closures. On the other hand, growing economies such as China, Russia, India and South Korea are considering building more nuclear power plants. China is leading the pack with 30 reactors under construction —more than any other country, accounting for 40 % of the world’s new reactor construction. According to the report, “strong drivers for nuclear energy include the need for long-term energy supplies and stable electricity prices, and for power sources with lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, the barriers to the growth and expansion of nuclear energy are undeniable: significant upfront capital costs of building nuclear power plants and refurbishments, public concerns around safety and security, and competition from lower natural gas prices”. The disposal of nuclear waste is also an issue of great concern for the public opinion in many countries. Within this context, the future of Canada’s nuclear energy sector is unclear. Undoubtedly, Canada has gained a rich experience in the use of nuclear energy for the generation of electricity during many years and is still one of the countries with an important nuclear industry. Backed by decades of research, experience, and innovation, the Canadian nuclear sector may be well-positioned to take advantage of opportunities around the world, if the problems that are affecting the nuclear sector can be solved. The nuclear industry has experienced stagnation over the past decade, due to lagging domestic reactor technology and developments, making it more difficult for Canada to compete globally. Serious challenges have significantly impaired the industry’s ability to compete in domestic and international markets. Among the greatest is the need to attain and maintain the social license to build nuclear reactors. Following Japan’s Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in 2011, many industrialized countries have become reluctant to expand or maintain their nuclear power plants in the face of perceived public safety concerns. Additionally, high capital costs, an increasingly competitive marketplace, Canada’s historical reliance on CANDU reactors, and a lack of clarity on foreign investment rules, all places significant limitations on our nuclear energy sector. With the second-largest uranium deposits in the world, a rich track record of leading-edge reactor technology, a stable regulatory system, a network of universities and research centers to support research and development (R&D), and a well-educated workforce, Canada has a strong foundation upon which to develop its nuclear energy sector, according to the report. To achieve this goal, a long-term strategy needs to be adopted in which a clear support for the development of the energy sector should be clearly stated.
Posted on: Thu, 06 Mar 2014 10:56:01 +0000
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