What are the costs associated with nuclear plant downtime?

[Vivi127]

Hi all,

I'm looking for information on the costs of downtime within nuclear plants.

I have in mind that it's around 1million euros per day but I'd like to have a clear overview of the key factors that may influenced this number. I've been looking for a 'scientific' paper for hours (need for reliable references) but can't find it...

Any ideas?

Thanks ahead!

P.S: If my post is not at the right place, do not hesitate to move it ;)

 

[QuantumPion]

The cost of downtime mainly depends on the cost of replacement power for the region (compared to the what you were selling your nuclear megawatts for). $1 million euros per day is a reasonable ball-park figure. Some factors which would affect the price would be having to buy replacement power from a neighboring utility or country; if you have to run oil or gas-fired power plants when fuel prices are high; or if electricity demand is high (e.g. peak of summer or winter).

 

[Vivi127]

Thanks for your answer, you gave me a very interesting clue!

Actually, I have to do some research for a University project and I was looking for an analysis, a study or a 'scientific' paper because I have to expose my references.

Do you know where I could find such documents?

 

[Hologram0110]

I don't know if you are interested information regarding CANDU reactors (or strictly LWR reactors). There is currently a lot of information in the news (that must be getting sources from somewhere) about a CANDU reactor in eastern Canada which is currently being refurbished. The project went very poorly and much of the work needs to be re started. The controversy is who should cover the cost of the replacement power due to the downtime. The news frequently uses "over a million dollars a day (Canadian)" when talking about how much it is costing to import the power from other areas.

Keeping in mind that the replacement power is only one component of the cost of downtime. I don't know of any scientific papers, but this might give you a direction for your research, the Wikipedia page for the plant is:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Point_Lepreau_Nuclear_Generating_Station

 

[alphy]

As a scientist in the field of nuclear energy, I can provide some insight into the costs associated with nuclear plant downtime. The actual cost of downtime can vary depending on several factors, including the size and type of the nuclear plant, the duration of the downtime, and the specific cause of the downtime. However, it is estimated that the cost of nuclear plant downtime can range from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars per day.

Some of the key factors that can influence the cost of downtime include lost revenue from electricity generation, costs of repairs and replacement parts, labor costs for maintenance and repairs, and potential regulatory fines. Additionally, if the downtime is due to a safety or security issue, the cost of addressing and resolving the issue can be significant.

It is important to note that the cost of nuclear plant downtime is not just financial. There are also potential environmental and societal costs associated with a nuclear plant being offline, such as increased reliance on other forms of energy and potential disruptions to the local community.

In terms of reliable references, I recommend looking at reports and studies from reputable organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the World Nuclear Association (WNA). These organizations regularly publish reports on the costs and economics of nuclear energy, including the costs of downtime.

I hope this information helps in your search for a clear overview of the costs associated with nuclear plant downtime. If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.