20141231-IEA-Technology_Roadmap_-_Nuclear_Energy_2015_64页_2mb

Summary

Nuclear energy remains the largest source of low-carbon electricity in OECD countries, contributing to energy security, carbon reduction, and decarbonization of the power sector under the 2°C Scenario (2DS). Despite challenges from Fukushima, lower financing capabilities, and competitiveness issues due to cheaper renewables and gas, nuclear deployment must double by 2050 to reach 930 GW of installed capacity, reducing global CO₂ emissions by up to 2.5 Gt annually.

Key actions for stakeholders include:

• Governments ensuring a clear long-term nuclear strategy, supporting safety research, co-operating on fuel services, advancing deep geological disposal (DGD), and promoting decarbonization incentives.
• Industry implementing timely safety upgrades, optimizing Gen III designs, and demonstrating Small Modular Reactor (SMR) viability by 2025.
• Universities and Research Institutions focusing on aging management, skills preservation, and safety research.
• Financial Institutions supporting projects through guarantees and exploring pension fund investments.

Challenges include post-Fukushima safety requirements, cost overruns, public acceptance, financing hurdles, and supply chain development. Enhanced safety culture, regulatory harmonization, and international collaboration (e.g., through GIF, NEA, IAEA) are critical for meeting the 2DS goals. By 2050, nuclear will need to balance growth, safety, and public support to meet low-carbon energy demands.