The speaker begins by contrasting the current understanding of nuclear power systems with that of 40 years ago. They recall the rapid construction of approximately 53-54 nuclear plants in the 1970s, emphasizing that these were built quickly and affordably, similar to other industrial projects, leading to a significant increase in nuclear power generation at the time.

The discussion then shifts to the new generation of nuclear reactor technology, known as advanced reactors (ARs). The speaker highlights that these ARs are designed to be safer, cleaner, and cheaper, promising an abundant supply of electricity. However, a key challenge is that none of these advanced reactors have been built yet.

The primary reason cited for this delay is the outdated regulatory system. The speaker explains that regulations were established long ago and have not kept pace with technological advancements. Therefore, a critical need exists to reform the nuclear regulatory system to expedite the market entry of these new reactors.

The speaker concludes with a forward-looking statement, suggesting that successfully implementing these reforms will be a significant benefit for future generations, who will appreciate the foresight and action taken today.

Abundance Institute

We know a whole lot more today than we knew 40 years ago about any system, particularly nuclear power. In the 70s, we built about 53 or 54 plants, I believe it was. We built them fast. We built them as inexpensive as any other industrial project. And suddenly, we had a lot of nuclear power.

So fast forward, the new generation of nuclear reactor technology, commonly referred to as advanced reactors, ARs. They are safer, cleaner, cheaper, and we'll have all the electricity we need, but we haven't built any yet. Why? Well, unfortunately, the regulations were all written a long time ago, and they've been held there.

We need to fix our nuclear regulatory system so that these reactors can get to market fast. If we get this right, future generations will look back and thank us for it.

What modern nuclear engineers wish you knew about today’s reactors

We know a whole lot more today than we
knew 40 years ago about any system,
particularly nuclear power. In the 70s,
we built about 53 or 54 plants, I
believe it was. We built them fast. We
built them as inexpensive as any other
industrial project. And suddenly, we had
a lot of nuclear power.
So fast
forward, the new generation of nuclear
reactor technology, commonly referred to
as advanced reactors, ARs. They are
safer, cleaner, cheaper, and we'll have
all the electricity we need, but we
haven't built any yet. Why? Well,
unfortunately, the regulations were all
written a long time ago, and they've
been held there. We need to fix our
nuclear regulatory system so that these
reactors can get to market fast. If we
get this right, future generations will
look back and thank us for it.

Get Our Mobile App

What modern nuclear engineers wish you knew about today’s reactors

Transcription