A Memorandum of Understanding for Cooperative Activities has been signed between the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) of the Organisation for Economic Co‑operation and Development (OECD) and the Electric Power Research Institute, Inc. (EPRI), recognising the value of increased collaboration between both parties.
The purpose of the MOU is to deepen both parties' understanding of the global research needs in the area of nuclear energy, taking into consideration the consolidated perspectives of utilities and the industry, as well as those of regulators and government organisations. The MOU seeks to reduce knowledge gaps by facilitating exchange between EPRI and NEA on global research activities in various fields of nuclear energy, such as safety, radioprotection, scientific and technology developments, operational experience, economic analysis and waste management.
"Our efforts to ensure that NEA member countries have access to state‑of‑the‑art information in nuclear technology and operations will be significantly enhanced thorough this partnership," said NEA Director‑General William D. Magwood, IV. "EPRI understands the existing and emerging challenges of nuclear facility operations. Its collaborative research activities will enhance the scope and relevance of the work of the NEA, and as such, help us to address the technical and strategic interests of our member countries."
The MOU outlines the scope and objectives of a five‑year agreement for NEA and EPRI to establish a formalised dialogue. EPRI and NEA representatives can now be invited to participate in meetings of each party's committees at the discretion of the relevant committee. EPRI and NEA may also develop joint events, seminars, workshops and training activities, and exchange views on draft documents.
"Our mutual interest in improving the connection between research, industry and regulation gives us the unique opportunity to leverage our strengths through co‑operation, develop innovative ideas, and deliver new technology for the benefit of EPRI's global membership and NEA member countries," said EPRI Vice President and Chief Nuclear Officer Neil Wilmshurst. "EPRI is delighted to utilise its pool of knowledge, expertise and information to exchange with the NEA at the strategical level, and thus to work together to ensure the safe operation of carbon‑free nuclear generation."
