NUCLEAR: THE 2000 ANNUAL REPORT OF THE OECD NUCLEAR ENERGY AGENCY (NEA).

Europe Energy, July, 2001

At the end of 2000, a total of 359 nuclear power units were in operation in OECD countries, providing approximately a quarter of the electricity supply. Key trends that affected nuclear power in 2000 included the continued deregulation of electricity markets, privatisation of the power sector and increasing awareness of environmental issues, especially the risk of global warming.Market deregulation has increased the incentive for nuclear power plant operators to enhance efficiency.

Availability factors of existing nuclear units in OECD countries have been steadily increasing and operating licenses have been extended up to 60 years in such countries as the United States. In a number of countries, market competition has accelerated restructuring of the nuclear...

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