The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) states that steady, near full capacity, baseload operation of nuclear power plants is often considered the most efficient use of capital investment for several reasons: constant thermal/electrical power operation is easier with fewer changes in plant condition; high capital costs combined with relatively low variable fuel costs make full-load operation the most cost-effective; baseload operation allows for more efficient utilization of nuclear fuel; and design and licensing are simpler for constant load operation because plant degradation and safety margins are more predictable.

Authors

• Person: Not available Organization: Congressional Research Service
  Nuclear Energy and Climate Change Mitigation

Sources

• Nuclear Energy and Climate Change Mitigation www.everycrsreport.com Congressional Research Service via serper

Referenced by nodes (2)

• nuclear power plant concept
• International Atomic Energy Agency entity