Nuclear Renaissance: Technologies and Policies for the Future of Nuclear Power , W. J. Nuttall , IOP, Philadelphia, 2005. $79.95 (322 pp.). ISBN 0-7503-0936-9
In Nuclear Renaissance: Technologies and Policies for the Future of Nuclear Power , William J. Nuttall of Cambridge University’s engineering department considers the possibility that nuclear power will indeed undergo a rebirth. He uses the term renaissance as an analogy comparing the possible rebirth of nuclear power to Europe’s emergence from the Middle Ages in the 14th through 16th centuries. The author acknowledges that the book is written from the perspective of North America and western Europe, where nuclear power has yet to gain full public acceptance, unlike in Asia, where use of nuclear power has progressed steadily during the past three decades.
Nuttall does an excellent job of explaining the challenges of any significant future use of nuclear power in the US, Canada, and Europe. He identifies three fundamental policy issues that will shape any nuclear renaissance: the economics of nuclear power, the environmental factors surrounding it, and the security of electricity supplies. The author provides a broad overview of factors that affect whether nuclear power could or should be included in a nation’s future energy portfolio. The book combines discussions of energy policy with extensive coverage of technical details on a number of topics unique to the nuclear industry. The discussion on nuclear waste management is especially relevant—particularly the handling and ultimate disposal of spent nuclear fuel.
In the book’s opening chapter, the author identifies the nadir of the nuclear power industry: It was not the accident at Three Mile Island or Chernobyl but rather the decision in the early 1990s to decommission the brand-new Shoreham boiling-water reactor on Long Island, New York. He attributes the decision to the triumph of economists over engineers. Perhaps he is right. But even at the time, the foundations for a future renaissance had been already developed from lessons learned at Three Mile Island and Chernobyl. Today’s nuclear power plants are performing at the highest levels in their history. Safe, reliable, cost-effective operations are making the case for the renaissance and are creating favorable trends in public acceptance. Ultimately, Nuttall asserts, the decision will be one of policy, not technology—and that policy will be shaped by the perceived benefits to society, such as reducing the use of fossil fuels and the emissions of greenhouse gases.
Nuttall expresses reservations about nuclear power. In the book’s afterword, he admits he would be inclined to view the world as a better place had nuclear fission never existed. But given that it does exist, he believes that nuclear power deserves to be considered on its merits but with no manifest right to contribute to power generation. Although the book’s title might lead one to conclude that the author is an advocate of the use of nuclear power, Nuttall maintains a reserved outlook on whether the renaissance will or should occur. It is refreshing for readers to be able to examine a controversial topic like nuclear power without feeling that the author is pushing an agenda. Most books or articles are either pro or con about the subject. Nuttall’s book is nonjudgmental.
I found myself questioning the intended audience for Nuclear Renaissance. Those who specialize in policy matters might find the book’s complex technical content a little difficult to grasp. However, the extensive use of pictures, diagrams, and charts is very helpful for readers who may be new to the technology of nuclear power.
The book’s seventh chapter, on nuclear waste burners, includes discussions of the various technologies associated with spent-fuel management and provides valuable insight into the challenges that exist and their potential solutions. On the other hand, the coverage of nuclear fusion in chapter 9, although interesting, is probably not a legitimate topic to include in a discussion of a nuclear renaissance. Fusion might be part of the future but in all likelihood will not occur in the next 10 years.
I agree with the three fundamental policy issues that Nuttall identifies as crucial to a nuclear renaissance, but I believe gaining public acceptance is also critical and may rely on matters different from those issues. For example, the public must have confidence that nuclear power plant operators place a premium on protecting public health and safety, and that their concern extends to nuclear waste management. In that regard, Nuttall contrasts the difficulties of radioactive waste management that exist in the UK and the US to those that exist in Finland, with its policy and practices of transparency, community volunteerism, and local engagement. He correctly points out the need for scientists and politicians involved in the technical aspects of nuclear power to listen to the concerns of the public and address those concerns.
I note one technical error, on page 179. The helium outlet temperature from a high-temperature, gas-cooled reactor is 1560 †F, not 1560 †C. A diagram on page 180 shows the correct temperature.
Overall, Nuclear Renaissance is well researched and well written and makes a valuable contribution to the debate on the future role of nuclear power.
