| ID | 112267 |
| Title Proper | Economic viability of small nuclear reactors in future European cogeneration markets |
| Language | ENG |
| Author | Carlsson, Johan ; Shropshire, David E ; Heek, Aliki van ; Futterer, Michael A |
| Publication | 2012. |
| Summary / Abstract (Note) | Small nuclear reactors align well with the small heat-capacity needs for many European process industries. Combined heat and power (CHP) reactors can support the EU low-carbon society goals while providing stability in production and cost. High temperature reactor technologies are well suited for the production of "high value" heat by producing temperatures of 200-550 °C. However, little is known about the market potential or economic competitiveness of these reactors in future European cogeneration markets. This study shows that the greatest potential is in chemical/petroleum, paper, metal, and bioenergy markets with small capacities (50-250 MWth). Target market costs for coal-CHP and natural gas-CHP were determined to range from 60-100 €/MWh and 95-208 €/MWh, respectively. Costs for "heat-only" ranges from 30-60 €/MWh based on gas boilers. Parametric analysis was used to create a cost breakdown (capital, operations and maintenance, fuel, and decommissioning) for an equivalent nuclear CHP that could compete against coal-CHP and natural gas-CHP. Sensitivity analysis showed that reactor capital costs and the costs of capital had the largest influence on competitiveness. In summary, the opportunities for nuclear CHP are highest in natural gas-CHP markets; however the benefits for CO2 reduction were greatest against coal-CHP. |
| `In' analytical Note | Energy Policy Vol. 43; Apr 2012: p.396-406 |
| Journal Source | Energy Policy Vol. 43; Apr 2012: p.396-406 |
| Key Words | Small Medium Reactor ; Combined Heat and Power ; Nuclear Economics |