Kristin Svinicki, 56, former head of the US nuclear regulator, proposes longer deadlines for Swiss nuclear power plants. She thinks a service life of up to 80 years is possible. This way, time can be bridged until new core technologies become available, Svinicki says in an interview with “NZZ am Sonntag”. “Your nuclear power plants are almost young,” says the expert.
In the US, many of these facilities are still operational after being checked by regulatory authorities. «In our research, we found that the owners maintain the systems well and upgrade many technologies. And the building materials have aged well, ”says the former head of the American nuclear regulatory agency, which was replaced in 2021.
“Last generation”
“We know the factories in detail because the license renewal process is tight. That’s why I can say with confidence: For nuclear power plants – such long operating times are possible for power plants in Switzerland too”, says “NZZ am Sonntag”.
Especially at Gösgen and Leibstadt nuclear power plants. Gösgen started operating in 1979, Leibstadt in 1984. This is a big advantage. “In the US, these power plants will belong to our last generation,” he says in an interview. At least for this reason, Switzerland believes its nuclear power plants can operate for up to 80 years.
nuclear power plant of the future
“Nuclear power plants in America would have their runtimes extended again and again,” Svinicki continued. There have been almost no new plants for decades. Core technology will also not be taboo in the future. On the contrary. 70 companies, including many start-ups, would work on the nuclear power plants of the future.
Nuclear power plants in this country can operate as long as they are safe. But in 2016, the public said yes to the ban on new factory construction. Experts, politicians and operators assumed that existing systems would be shut down after 50 years. Most nuclear reactors are designed to last 40 years. A 60-year study period is now coming into focus. (pbe)