Columbia International Affairs Online: Policy Briefs

CIAO DATE: 09/2011

Research, Development, and Demonstration for the Future of Nuclear Energy

Laura D. Anadon, Valentina Bosetti, Bunn, Michela Catenacci, Audrey Lee

June 2011

Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, Harvard University

Abstract

Dramatic growth in nuclear energy would be required for nuclear power to provide a significant part of the carbon-free energy the world is likely to need in the 21st century or a major part in meeting other energy challenges. This would require increased support from governments, utilities, and publics around the world. Achieving that support is likely to require improved economics and major progress toward resolving issues of nuclear safety, proliferation-resistance, and nuclear waste management. This is likely to require both research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) of improved technologies and new policy approaches.