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