Prospects for Nuclear Energy in the 21st Century and the Role of the International Atomic Energy Agency

Abstract

In the second half of the 20th century nuclear power has evolved to an industry that supplies 17% of the world's electricity. A great deal has been achieved and many lessons have been learned. The past decade, however, has seen stagnation or slow growth in nuclear power plant construction except in East Asia. The turn of the century can be a turning point for nuclear power due to increasing world energy consumption, the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improvements in operation and economics of nuclear power plants. Advanced reactor designs are being developed so that the technology will be ready for the next century. Issues that have dampened support for nuclear power are being addressed through the emerging global nuclear safety culture, attention to nuclear waste disposal and a strengthened safeguards system. The International Atomic Energy Agency promotes technical information exchange and co-operation, provides a source of balanced, objective information, and publishes reports on the current status of reactor development. The Agency will continue to play a major role as the nuclear industry faces the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.