Skip to main content
U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Approach to nuclear power plant life extension

Journal Article · · Nucl. Saf.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5481325
Extending the useful life of electric generating plants can reduce costs and defer future capacity requirements. In the Atomic Energy Act of 1954, nuclear plant operating license duration was set at a maximum of 40 years, and most nuclear power plants have been designed for that lifetime. Since the mid-1970s, the industry has recognized that major portions of nuclear plants could last much longer than the original license duration. More-recent studies have concluded that refurbishing plants - even at extensive costs - would be economically beneficial. The expected shortage of generating capacity early in the next century has resulted in serious efforts to address the life extension issue. This article notes current programs for study of life extension, outlines detailed requirements for a technical approach, and offers initial practical steps to be taken to support life-extension efforts.
Research Organization:
Stone and Webster Engineering Corp., Boston, MA
OSTI ID:
5481325
Journal Information:
Nucl. Saf.; (United States), Journal Name: Nucl. Saf.; (United States) Vol. 27:3; ISSN NUSAA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English