Opinion
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Opinion
Nuclear power – what are the barriers to expansion?
Fundamental change is needed to secure the future of nuclear energy. The current international regime and the focus on safety is beginning to hamper potential even in growth regions...
Radiation awareness - why must this be tackled?
Steve Kidd explains how improving perception of radiation is a crucial step to overcoming the fear of nuclear energy.
Nuclear power - can it avoid oblivion?
MANY OF MY ARTICLES SEEM to start with the statement that “nuclear power stands at the crossroads”. This has been the case for the 14 years that I’ve been writing for this magazine...
Nuclear in China – where is it heading now?
Completion of the first EPR and AP1000 reactors in China marks a major milestone, but China’s ambitious nuclear expansion programme is no longer on track. Steve Kidd examines why.
Japan – is there a future in nuclear?
It is now more than seven years since the Fukushima accident in March 2011 but the future of Japan in nuclear power remains in some doubt, Steve Kidd explains.
The renaissance – what happened?
Ten years ago, there were huge aspirations in the industry for a nuclear renaissance, but it has not materialised. Steve Kidd looks at three factors that have adversely impacted...
Climate change – should nuclear steer clear?
With fossil fuel use increasing and carbon emissions growing, Steve Kidd asks whether it is time to start adapting to climate change rather than trying to mitigate it.
How to ensure a future for nuclear – Stage 1
A new strategy is urgently needed to promote the future of commercial nuclear power, as Steve Kidd explains. This requires reform of international regulatory regimes and a reassessment...
Operating reactors - can they still compete?
Nuclear reactors currently account for around 10% of global electricity production, but this is under threat. Maintaining the future fleet requires a balance between economic...
Nuclear new build – where does it stand today?
Countries around the world are embracing new reactor construction, but as Steve Kidd explains more is needed if nuclear power is to play a role in meeting future energy needs
Beyond 2017 – where does nuclear stand?
The energy news from 2017 provided the usual mix of positive and negative stories. Steve Kidd reviews some of the main developments, including the progress on using nuclear for...
Nuclear economics – a perpetual challenge?
Rising construction costs, low gas prices and increasing renewable generation mean nuclear is facing challenges in the USA at the moment. Is this a long-term issue, and does it...
Renewable power – progress or not?
The growth of renewables over the last few years suggests the electricity market is at a moment of significant transition. What is the true cost of this shift to wind and solar, and...
Nuclear proliferation – is it a problem for the civil sector?
Two recent news items may not seem closely related, but on closer examination suggest that much of the current thinking on nuclear matters needs a complete revamp.
Uranium – what are the dynamics between China and Kazakhstan?
China has relied heavily on Kazahstan for uranium needs. However as the Chinese programme slows, it has become time for the world’s top uranium producer to look to other markets.
Nuclear in China – why the slowdown?
China’s targets for 58GW of installed nuclear capacity and 30GW under construction by 2020 are looking difficult to achieve. Are the constraints that are so familiar in the Western...
The era of nuclear power – can we prevent it coming to an end?
With the rise of renewables and the slow shift away from fossil fuels, nuclear power is looking less important. But if nuclear is to maintain a role in future, the industry must...
South Korea – could domestic issues hurt reactor export ambitions?
Korea is now a serious contender in the reactor export business after success in the United Arab Emirates, but at home the future of nuclear is more uncertain.
The UK nuclear programme – does it make any sense?
Not at all, says Steve Kidd*
