Perspective toward nuclear revival

One of the biggest challenges facing the nuclear power industry today is the ability to reliably and cost-effectively generate electricity so that the nuclear option remains a viable and preferred source of energy. Unfortunately, by some projections, as many as 25 operating nuclear units could be shut down prematurely because of increasing O M and total generating costs. To improve generating cost, it will be necessary to increase plant availability and reliability and reduce O M costs. According to recent data, the cost of labor makes up approximately 80 percent of the total O M costs for nuclear plants. Engineering is, of course, included in labor costs and has been steadily increasing over the years. Clearly, major opportunities to reduce cost include improving engineering performance as well as reducing personnel. Reductions in contractor personnel will also be a key utility cost-saving strategy. However, engineering firms, working with utility customers, can play a major role in lowering engineering costs, improving plant performance, and reducing generating cost. Since 1979, the nuclear power industry has shifted from a major growth industry to one that needs new and innovative methods to improve the performance of the 109 operating plants and eventually extend their lives.more » Engineering excellence can significantly improve plant performance, and architecture/engineering (A/E) firms can help. Engineering excellence is also a critical strategic issue for the next generation of nuclear plants.« less