
Catalyst with Shayle Kann
The cost of nuclear
Nov 16, 2023
Why nuclear construction costs vary from country to country, with the US having high costs of over $6,000 per kilowatt and South Korea having low costs of around $2,200 per kilowatt. The podcast discusses the factors that contribute to these costs including modularity, small reactors, and passive safety features. It also delves into the need for regulatory changes and the challenges faced by the nuclear industry. Despite the challenges, there is optimism for the future of nuclear energy.
47:48
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Quick takeaways
- Nuclear construction costs vary significantly across countries, with South Korea having some of the lowest costs at around $2,200 per kilowatt, while the US can reach $8,000 per kilowatt.
- Factors such as reactor design, construction and engineering costs, and supply chain management play a significant role in determining nuclear costs, with regulatory processes being just one factor among many.
Deep dives
The Global Context of Nuclear Development
Globally, there is significant growth in the deployment of nuclear power, particularly in East Asia, South Asia, and Central Asia. Countries like China, India, and South Korea are building reactors to meet the rapid growth in demand for electricity. Additionally, over 30 countries are looking to develop their first nuclear power plants, including countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and Central and South America.
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