U. S. S. R. reaches takeoff in nuclear power
A total electric power grid, first visualized by Lenin as a mechanism for uniting the Soviet Union, has grown to cover over seven times zones and will require nuclear power to finish the intertie. Still in its infancy, Soviet nuclear power is expected to grow from its present 2% to 33% share by the year 2000 and will surpass U.S. capability because of the Carter Administration's policy on breeder reactors and the economic and regulatory constraints on nuclear power plants. The economic impact will be devastating if the U.S. is forced to import breeder reactors as other countries enter the uranium-enrichment service. By contrast, the Soviets boast the world's largest nuclear power plant and leadership in thermonuclear fusion. Soviet nuclear goals are based on a recognition that fossil fuels are diminishing and some will be too expensive to transport. The Soviets also desire to take advantage of the opportunity to export nuclear technology. The author describes a tour of Soviet nuclear facilities and some of the social and economic pressures behind the move for electrification and industrial development.
- Research Organization:
- C and EN, Washington, DC
- OSTI ID:
- 6524197
- Journal Information:
- Chem. Eng. News (Wash., D.C.); (United States), Vol. 56:45
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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USSR
ELECTRIC POWER
NUCLEAR POWER
BREEDER REACTORS
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
ECONOMIC IMPACT
ECONOMIC POLICY
ENERGY POLICY
ENERGY SUPPLIES
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INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS
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EUROPE
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290600* - Energy Planning & Policy- Nuclear Energy
210000 - Nuclear Power Plants