Limited Scope Sustainability Assessment of Planned Nuclear Energy Systems Based on BN-1200 Fast Reactors

The INPRO sustainability assessment method was applied to an innovative nuclear energy system using the BN-1200 fast reactor to identify actions for sustainable long-term deployment. The assessment verified the readiness of the updated INPRO Methodology and provided recommendations for further improvements.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 100 pages
Publication date: 30 July 2021
Publisher: IAEA

Here is the rephrased text:

A comprehensive INPRO sustainability assessment was conducted on an innovative nuclear energy system utilizing the BN-1200 fast reactor as a case study. This assessment was carried out at the full-depth criteria level, with the primary objective of identifying strategies for the sustainable long-term deployment of sodium-cooled fast reactors. The findings of this assessment were documented in a publication, which explores the application of the INPRO sustainability assessment method to the innovative nuclear energy system based on BN-1200 fast reactors in the domains of economics and nuclear reactor safety.

The case study serves as a valuable tool to verify the readiness of the updated INPRO Methodology for evaluating sodium-cooled fast reactors and to generate recommendations for further enhancements to the INPRO assessment method. By conducting a thorough analysis of the economic and safety aspects of this innovative nuclear energy system, the assessment provides valuable insights into the potential benefits and challenges associated with its deployment.

The INPRO sustainability assessment method is a rigorous and comprehensive framework that evaluates the environmental, social, and economic impacts of a proposed project or system. It encompasses a wide range of factors, including lifecycle costs, resource consumption, waste management, and social acceptability. The assessment is designed to help decision-makers make informed choices that balance the potential benefits of a project with its potential impacts on the environment and society.

In the case of the innovative nuclear energy system based on BN-1200 fast reactors, the INPRO assessment method was applied to evaluate its economic and safety aspects. The assessment considered factors such as the construction costs, operating costs, and the potential risks associated with the reactor, such as accidents and radiation exposure. By analyzing these factors, the assessment was able to identify areas where the system could be improved to enhance its sustainability and reduce its potential risks.

One of the key findings of the INPRO assessment was that the innovative nuclear energy system based on BN-1200 fast reactors has the potential to provide a reliable and cost-effective source of electricity. The reactor is designed to be highly efficient, with a low operating cost per unit of electricity produced. Additionally, the system has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants, making it a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based power plants.

However, the INPRO assessment also identified several areas where the system could be improved to enhance its sustainability and reduce its potential risks. For example, the assessment identified concerns about the long-term storage of nuclear waste and the potential for accidents or incidents that could harm the environment or public health. To address these concerns, the assessment recommended that the system be designed with additional safety measures and that a robust waste management plan be developed.

Another area where the system could be improved was in terms of its social acceptability. The innovative nuclear energy system has the potential to generate significant employment opportunities and economic growth in the regions where it is deployed. However, there may be concerns about the safety of the reactor and the potential impact on the local community. To address these concerns, the assessment recommended that the system be designed with a strong focus on public education and outreach, and that a transparent and inclusive decision-making process be established to ensure that the local community is fully engaged in the decision-making process.

In conclusion, the INPRO sustainability assessment of the innovative nuclear energy system based on BN-1200 fast reactors provides valuable insights into the potential benefits and challenges associated with its deployment. The assessment highlights the importance of conducting comprehensive assessments that consider both economic and safety aspects to ensure that the potential benefits of a project are balanced with its potential impacts on the environment and society. By identifying areas where the system can be improved, the assessment helps to pave the way
way for the sustainable long-term deployment of this innovative nuclear energy technology.

Weight: 300g
ISBN-13: 9789201091215