STATUS OF AND PROSPECTS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A NUCLEAR FUEL CYCLE FOR NUCLEAR POWER WORLDWIDE AND IN RUSSIA

摘要

Nuclear Power as a User of Nuclear Fuel Cycle Services. The predictions for the development of nuclear power are different for different geographical regions. Low growth rates, excess generating capacity, decentralization, liberalization, and new technologies in thermal power production (higher efficiency due to the use of water with transcritical parameters) are seen in North America and the European Union. High growth rates, a lack of generating capacity and fossil fuels, and state programs are characteristic in Asia; this stimulates the development of nuclear power. The abundance and diversity of fuel resources in our country make it possible to have a flexible energy policy. The fraction of organic fuels which are exported (～60% of internal use) is growing, and substantial reductions will hardly be possible because of the geopolitical situation and the state of the economy. Thus, modern Russian nuclear power is a stabilizing base for the entire national energy complex. The status and possibilities for the development of a nuclear fuel cycle (NFC) are determined by its competitiveness and domestic and worldwide demand.