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U.S. Department of Energy
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Price--Anderson Act: the insurance industry's view

Journal Article · · Forum (Chicago); (United States)
OSTI ID:7308407

The insurance industry feels the expense of providing insurance coverage under the Price-Anderson Act is justified because it encouraged development of nuclear power and assured protection for the public in the event of an accident. Insurance pools have been instituted in about 20 countries in order to distribute the risk on a worldwide basis. Changes in the original Act allow an off-site claimant to get compensation with defense waived and provide for the transition of financial responsibility from the public to the private sector. To date the pools have refunded $9.7 of $12.7 million (73 percent) of the premiums to the insured and the remainder has grown into a $45 million fund, which reflects the success of the nuclear industry and the regulatory agencies in establishing a safe record. This record covers 60 power reactors, 50 research and development reactors, waste disposal sites, and about 50 nuclear facilities. With the exception of reactor operators and fuel reprocessors, the insurance is voluntary at premiums ranging from $1000 to $260,000. A total of $600,000 has been paid in claims. (DCK)

OSTI ID:
7308407
Journal Information:
Forum (Chicago); (United States), Journal Name: Forum (Chicago); (United States) Vol. 12:2; ISSN FRUMC
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English