|
The Electric Power Research Institute and its members collaborate on research, development, and demonstration activities to ensure that nuclear power remains an economically feasible option within current and future generation mixes. EPRI leads efforts on two main fronts to sustain and expand nuclear power’s ability to drive carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions reductions and to satisfy growing demand for electricity: long-term operation of existing nuclear power plants, and development and deployment of new nuclear plants incorporating best technology available. |
 |
|
To ensure safe, cost-effective operation of existing nuclear plants, EPRI-led research focuses on:
-
Resolving material degradation and aging issues
-
Sustaining equipment reliability
-
Reducing the susceptibility of nuclear fuel assemblies to failure
-
Addressing equipment obsolescence and supply chain issues
-
Providing a trained workforce to replace retiring employees and maintain plant performance
-
Resolving technical issues related to spent fuel management and nuclear waste disposal
To accelerate new nuclear power plant development and deployment, EPRI research focuses on:
- Ensuring that critical lessons learned from the current nuclear fleet are reflected in new plant designs
- Minimizing technical risks in areas such as materials and equipment reliability
- Resolving issues common to more than one nuclear reactor design, including seismic stability and digital instrumentation and control
- Assessing the viability of emerging integrated spent fuel management strategies, which could significantly reduce the amount of high-level waste produced
The ultimate goal for EPRI and its members is to equip the world to use electricity efficiently and with minimal environmental impacts, while sustaining the economic productivity and quality of life that depend on electric power.
|
