Nuclear Energy: Financial and Regulatory Challenges

This chapter explores the financial and regulatory hurdles in constructing nuclear reactors in the U.S., with a specific focus on the AP1000 model and the emerging small modular reactors (SMRs). It discusses the need for a federal safety net to manage cost overruns, the intricacies of power purchase agreements, and the essential role of policy support for advancing nuclear technologies. The conversation highlights the balance of risks, the necessity of a reliable supply chain, and the impact of regulatory frameworks on new reactor deployments.