Maximizing Current Potential
Developing the Nuclear Workforce
Bringing New Technology Online
Maximizing Current Potential. A report issued by EPRI in the fall reported that increasing U.S. nuclear capacity from the existing fleet of reactors—through restarts, uprates/expansions, and extending operating life—could create 9 gigawatts (GW) of generation, the equivalent of nine additional large-scale U.S. nuclear units. Restarting plants that have already been decommissioned is another strategy being considered or pursued at three shuttered plants, with the possibility of an additional 2.4 GW of capacity if all three are brought back online. Extending the licensed life of today's operating plants is another option for making the most of current assets. EPRI has contributed to research that found reactor life could extend to 80 years, which, if applied to today's fleet, could mean an added 97 GW of carbon-free electricity by 2050.
Bringing New Technology Online. New nuclear designs, including several approaches to small, modular reactors, offer the promise of faster construction and safer operation. Some designs are even being tailored for individual industrial sites. EPRI provides customized, expert guidance for each project stage, from identifying technology requirements to commissioning and operations. Additionally, EPRI is monitoring advances in fusion technology. New breakthroughs in materials science, manufacturing, computational power, and artificial intelligence are speeding fusion's shift from fundamental research to applied engineering.
Developing the Nuclear Workforce. The nuclear industry now faces a workforce gap, with seasoned professionals retiring, particularly in nondestructive examination (NDE), and fewer new technologists entering the field. EPRI's recent NDE workforce study proposes actionable steps to stem this decline. EPRI is using this study's findings to develop a strategic roadmap for revitalizing this workforce, with final guidance expected this year.
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