Breeder reactor in the U.S.: a new economic analysis

Journal Article · Tue Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1974 · Technol. Rev., v. 76, no. 8, pp. 26-36

OSTI ID:4129577

Bupp, I C; Derian, J C

Approximately half of the U. S. energy research and development budget for fiscal year 1974 was applied to the liquid metal fast breeder reactor (LMFBR) program. The economics of this program are examined by a comparison of LMFBR and light water reactor capital and operating costs. It is concluded that the LMFBRs will be competitive only if they can be built at a construction cost no greater than $50/kW above light water reactor costs and if uranium prices rise above $50/ lb. The questionable prospects for these conditions to come about indicates the need for a more balanced energy research and development effort. (HDR)

• Research Organization: Harvard Univ., Cambridge, MA
• NSA Number: NSA-33-011395
• OSTI ID: 4129577
• Journal Information: Technol. Rev., v. 76, no. 8, pp. 26-36, Journal Name: Technol. Rev., v. 76, no. 8, pp. 26-36; ISSN TEREA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

*LMFBR TYPE REACTORS-- ECONOMICS
*URANIUM-- COST
*WATER COOLED REACTORS-- ECONOMICS
210800* --Nuclear Power Plants--Economics
COMPARATIVE EVALUATIONS
FORECASTING
N79500* --Reactors--Nuclear Power Plant Economics