New York, United States, 5 September- In a crucial moment for the nuclear industry, the biggest utilities, investors, contractors and industry bodies are meeting to discuss the opportunities nuclear new builds present. 

There are currently 104 operating nuclear reactors in the US that employ an average of 700 people to run them across 31 states, put that alongside the thousands of people needed to maintain and construct new builds and economically the projects remain a pivotal pillar of US society. Nuclear energy currently accounts for 19% of US energy [NEI].

Over the last few years, nuclear construction projects in the US have hit a stumbling block with competition from low costing natural gas. Many planned programs have been delayed due to an increase in regulations and difficulties securing funding.

In October, the leading names from across the nuclear industry are meeting to discuss these challenges, plus the opportunities and lessons learnt from other projects both in the US and globally.
Focusing on the funding issues, Bank of America, Moody’s and CoBank will give some much needed insight from the financial sector. The NRC will be attending to give an update on both large light water licensing and construction challenges as well as small modular reactors.

The biggest nuclear operators including Duke Energy, URENCO USA, Southern Company, SCE&G and TVA will also be present to share ideas on the lessons they have learnt with new builds and managing complex supply chains. This will all be part of a broader debate with input from Atkins, CB&I and AREVA who are coming with best practice from the international market.

It has never been more important for nuclear leaders to unite and resolve the issues that have hindered it in years gone by. Encouraging news has been released in recent days, as SCE&G announced that their VC Summer new build is currently coming in under estimate, demonstrating that nuclear is still the most cost effective clean energy option.

The 5th Annual Nuclear Construction Summit (22-23 October, Charlotte, North Carolina) brings together 400+ of the key regulators, utilities, contractors and industry bodies to discuss strategies to finance, license and deliver nuclear construction projects on time and on budget.

Early discount rates are available by registering now, plus a special $75 discount by entering code PRS13 at https://secure.nuclearenergyinsider.com/nuclear-construction-summit/regi...

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