Nuclear power in accelerated economic growth scenarios

Abstract

The paper discusses requirements for the development of the Russian energy complex and electric power industry during the transition to accelerated scenarios for the growth of the country’s economy. We have simulated macroeconomic scenarios and determined energy needs of the domestic market and effective export of fuel and energy, as well as the necessary volume and structure of energy resource production. Difficulties in reconciling the objectives of intensive growth and deep decarbonization of the economy are noted. The scenario-optimized structure of electricity production and installed capacity of power plants is presented. The study demonstrates the expediency of increasing the role of nuclear power plants (NPPs) in the electric power industry. Key requirements for the pace and cost of commissioning new NPPs have been identified. The importance of technological learning effects for enhancing the competitiveness of NPPs in the changing national energy system is noted.