NRI Annual Review 2025 - Flipbook - Page 38
nuclear sector, offering smaller, more
affordable options that attract private
financing. The UK is emerging as a leader in
advancing nuclear technology, with policy
initiatives supporting new developments.
Global nuclear energy expansion
Brianna Lazerwitz from the IAEA discussed
the outcomes of the first Nuclear Energy
Summit, which addressed the challenges of
expanding nuclear capacity to meet 2050
goals. Government support remains crucial,
but innovative financing mechanisms
are emerging to involve the private
sector. Green bonds and power purchase
agreements are gaining traction, and SMRs
are being approached with new strategies
to scale deployment. The IAEA continues
to research nuclear energy’s role in
achieving net zero objectives and
addressing climate change.
Nuclear liability and
international collaboration
and Vienna Conventions have established
streamlined systems for compensating
nuclear-related damages. The Convention
on Supplementary Compensation for
Nuclear Damage (CSC) aims to create a
unified global system, although challenges
remain in harmonising these frameworks.
Artificial intelligence in
nuclear applications
Shane Turner and Dr. Andrew White from
the UK Office for Nuclear Regulation
highlighted the potential of AI in nuclear
safety and efficiency. Collaborative efforts
with international regulators aim to
establish principles for the safe application
of AI. While AI offers significant benefits,
such as optimising maintenance and
enhancing safety, its rapid development
presents challenges. Ensuring robust
regulatory frameworks and human
oversight is essential for integrating AI
into nuclear operations.
The importance of effective nuclear liability
frameworks was underscored by Ben
McRae from the US Department of Energy.
Historical challenges in the US led to the
implementation of the Price-Anderson Act,
which provided a clear legal framework for
nuclear liability. Internationally, the Paris
Conclusion
The NRI Frontiers webinar series continues to provide valuable insights into the evolving
nuclear energy landscape. As the world transitions to clean energy, nuclear power
plays a critical role in achieving decarbonisation goals. However, this expansion requires
overcoming significant challenges, including climate impacts, regulatory hurdles, and
public perception. By fostering international collaboration and innovation, the nuclear
sector can contribute effectively to a sustainable energy future.
To read the full webinar summaries, please access them on our website:
NRI Frontiers 8TH Webinar
NRI Frontiers 9TH Webinar
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