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2019

2019 Year-in-Review

2019 was a very active and impactful year at the NEA. During this year, the NEA released flagship reports on the system costs of electricity, the supply of medical radioisotopes and the long-term operation of nuclear power reactors. It organised conferences and workshops corresponding to the needs of member countries in the application and exploration of nuclear science and technology, including the country-specific nuclear safety culture forum in Finland and the first Global Forum on Innovation for the Future of Nuclear Energy. The Agency also continued its efforts in enhancing international co-operation with events such as the first Roundtable for International Co‑operation in Final Disposal of High‑level Radioactive Waste and Spent Fuel. Watch our year‑in‑review video here to see the highlights and key moments of 2019.

Nuclear and Social Science Nexus: Challenges and Opportunities for Speaking Across the Disciplinary Divide, December 2019Nuclear and Social Science Nexus: Challenges and Opportunities for Speaking Across the Disciplinary Divide

The NEA organised a workshop on the "Nuclear and Social Science Nexus: Challenges and Opportunities for Speaking Across the Disciplinary Divide" on 12‑13 December 2019. The first‑of‑its‑kind event brought together over 100 participants, including social science and humanities researchers, academic nuclear engineers, practitioners and policy makers. The participants examined the current scope of research in the social sciences with a focus on nuclear energy, and identified ways of transforming research findings into recommendations for practice. The two‑day workshop aimed to build intellectual bridges across the nuclear and social sciences, as well as the academic and practitioner divides. Selected papers from the workshop will be published in a forthcoming special issue of the nuclear engineering journal Nuclear Technology. Workshop participants expressed a keen interest in developing inter- and transdisciplinary research collaborations and continuing their dialogue beyond the workshop. The NEA will work to identify opportunities for such collaborations in the coming months.

Exploratory Meeting on Improving the Gender Balance in Nuclear Energy

As is the case for many areas of science and technology, women are significantly under-represented in technical and leadership positions in the nuclear sector. This lack of gender diversity may have substantial impacts on the future of nuclear energy in NEA member countries and certainly represents a loss of needed talent when the workforce is aging and many experts are nearing retirement. Attracting, recruiting and retaining women in science and technology, as well as enhancing the conditions and prospects for women and girls at every stage of their education and careers, is a challenge for which the NEA supports its member countries. In pursuit of these efforts, the NEA convened this week an "Exploratory Meeting on Improving the Gender Balance in Nuclear Energy".

The event brought together experts and professionals representing ministries, regulators, TSOs, international organizations from 12 NEA member countries. The participants exchanged information regarding the status of women in the nuclear sectors in their home countries and discussed what practical steps might be taken to address the challenges related to the participation of women in nuclear energy activities. They discussed short-term efforts to increase the number of women advancing to leadership positions, as well as long-term strategies to increase and accelerate the participation of women in nuclear field. During his remarks, Director‑General Magwood highlighted NEA initiatives such as NEA Mentoring Workshops and Global Panel of Universities. "We, at the NEA, believe the time is right to support our members by increasing the prominence of gender balance within national and global policy agendas, and finding paths to take substantive action," he said.

New report and webinar on the supply of medical radioisotopes

The NEA hosted a webinar on 18 November 2019 to present findings from a new report on the supply of medical radioisotopes, jointly produced with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Health Committee. Technetium-99m (Tc-99m) is the most commonly used medical radioisotope, essential for 85% of the nuclear medicine diagnostic scans performed worldwide. There are no comparable substitutes available for diagnoses of various cancers and for a range of diagnostics in children. Unfortunately, the global supply of Tc-99m is not technically and economically robust, and the existing supply-chain continues to experience chronic shortages. This new study analyses the current market structure and identifies barriers for the implementation of full cost recovery. If you missed the event, download the report and watch the webinar recording here: oe.cd/nea-med-rad-webinar-2019.

NEA Director-General visits Brazil, November 2019NEA Director-General visits Brazil to discuss further enhancements to co-operation

NEA Director‑General Mr William D. Magwood, IV and senior staff visited Brazil on 4‑8 November 2019 for a series of meetings with various ministries and institutions, the Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME), the Ministry of Science, Technology, Innovation and Communication (MCTIC), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MRE), the Institutional Security Cabinet, and the National Nuclear Energy Commission (CNEN). Technical visits were also made to the Angra Nuclear Power Plant, the Nuclear and Energy Research Institute (IPEN), and the São Paulo Naval Technology Centre (CTMSP). While in Brazil, Director‑General Magwood gave a lecture on the current state and future prospects for nuclear energy to students and faculty at the University of São Paulo. The Director‑General's visit to Brazil was an excellent opportunity to exchange views on nuclear power, education and research, as well as on how to continue strengthening the NEA's engagement with Brazilian entities.

NEA Steering Committee for Nuclear Energy, October 2019NEA Steering Committee for Nuclear Energy

On 25‑26 October 2019, the NEA held the biannual meeting of the Steering Committee for Nuclear Energy, the highest decision making body at the NEA in which all 33 member countries are represented. The committee is primarily made up of senior officials from national atomic energy authorities and associated ministries. It oversees and shapes the work of the Agency to ensure its responsiveness to member countries' needs. Among the highlights of the October meeting was a discussion on NEA considerations on nuclear technology evolution. The Committee heard about the NEA's progress in establishing the Global Council of Universities on Nuclear Energy Technology Policy and Education, in which leading universities from around the world will engage important human capital issues and other long‑term challenges. Mrs Anne Lazar‑Sury (France) and Mr James R. Warden (United States) were designated as new Vice‑Chairs to the Bureau of the Committee to support Chair Dr Marta Žiaková (Slovak Republic). The meeting agenda also included a presentation on the recent NEA Workshop on Stakeholder Involvement: Risk Communication – Dialogues towards a Shared Understanding of Radiological Risks. The meeting continued with a Policy Briefing on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

Roundtable for International Co‑operation in Final Disposal of High-level Radioactive Waste and Spent Fuel, October 2019Advancing international co-operation on radioactive waste disposal

Policymakers from fifteen countries met in Paris today to discuss the role of government in international co‑operation on advancing the development of national radioactive waste disposal programmes. The first Roundtable for International Co‑operation in Final Disposal of High‑level Radioactive Waste and Spent Fuel was jointly organised by the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) of Japan, and the United States Department of Energy (US DOE).

During his opening remarks, Director‑General Magwood noted that international co‑operation can help achieve national solutions through the exchange of information and co‑ordination of policies, and by developing a consensus on international standards. "There have been intensive technical and scientific collaborations over the years," he said. "However, international dialogues at the strategic and policy levels can help further facilitate the exchange of existing approaches, both in the implementation of the HLW management policies, programmes and in regulatory oversight." Read more

Trust is essential for effective risk communication

Stakeholder involvement is key to achieving decisions that are accepted and sustainable for the use of nuclear energy and technologies. To this end, and as a follow‑up to the 2017 Workshop on Stakeholder Involvement in Nuclear Decision Making, the NEA held the Workshop on Stakeholder Involvement: Risk Communication on 24‑26 September 2019 to shed light on the complex challenges and best practices of communicating issues related to radiological risk. The workshop opened with video remarks from the OECD Secretary‑General Angel Gurría. Keynote remarks were delivered by H.E. Minister János Süli, Hungary's Minister without Portfolio, responsible for the Paks Nuclear Power Plant expansion, and Hon. Stefano Vignaroli, Member of Parliament and President of the Waste Committee of the Chamber of Deputies of Italy. Through panel discussions and interactive sessions, the workshop served to support 170 officials from 36 countries in identifying and developing the tools and approaches needed to foster dialogue and shared understanding of radiological risks between officials, experts and stakeholders.

The event brought together nuclear regulators, government agencies, elected officials, operators and representatives of civil society, including ordinary citizens and NGOs. Hearing stakeholders' concerns and viewpoints was a key highlight of the workshop, with a special session featuring a school administrator and high school students from Fukushima Prefecture who shared their candid views about radiological risk communication in the context of the Fukushima Daiichi crisis and its aftermath. Many discussions highlighted that building trust is essential for effective risk communication through local and long‑term engagement. Chairs and representatives of NEA Standing Technical Committees indicated that their committees would discuss possible follow‑up actions identified by the workshop. A summary report of the workshop and its outcomes is currently in preparation.

Committee of the Italian Parliament visits the NEA, September 2019Committee of the Italian Parliament visits the NEA

An Italian delegation led by the Honorary Stefano Vignaroli, President of the Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry for Illegal Activities related to the Waste Cycle and for Related Environmental Crimes, visited the NEA on 27 September 2019 for high‑level discussions on radioactive waste and decommissioning. Discussions also touched on the NEA activities in the area of nuclear technology education, including the NEA Nuclear Education, Skills and Technology (NEST) Framework. Mr Vignaroli's visit enabled detailed exchanges of information and ideas, and his remarks at the NEA Workshop on Stakeholder Involvement: Risk Communication highlighted the important policy aspects of public communication.

Policy Dialogues on Developing Decommissioning Industry Clusters in Fukushima, September 2019NEA and OECD support for Fukushima

The NEA and the OECD, together with the government of Japan, Fukushima Prefecture and the Fukushima Innovation Coast Framework Promotion Organisation (FIPO), are organising a series of Policy Dialogues on Developing Decommissioning Industry Clusters in Fukushima. The aim is to contribute to the long‑term sustainable development of the area and local economy. As part of this dialogue series, the NEA and the OECD co‑organised a meeting on 26‑27 September 2019 to explore ways to enhance decommissioning capability, improve quality of life and boost local job creation in the Fukushima region during the decommissioning of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. Following the two‑day meeting, participants also met with representatives from SHINSEI, a local non‑profit organisation based in Koriyama, Fukushima. SHINSEI provides training and job placement assistance to people with disabilities who were affected by the Great East Japan Earthquake. The participants also spent time with evacuees with disabilities to understand the impact of the 2011 accident on the current living standards of those who have special needs. They also took the opportunity to discuss how to enhance the sustainability of local communities.

Nuclear in a changing world, June 2019World Nuclear Association and the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency launch new partnership

The World Nuclear Association has today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the OECD Nuclear Agency at a ceremony in London. Under the MoU, both organisations have agreed to share best practices and co‑operate to support the wider understanding of nuclear energy and its development, to enable more effective and efficient nuclear safety, to exchange on improved approaches to decommission deactivated facilities, to enhance the legal frameworks associated with various international nuclear activities such as transport, and to support the economic and efficient use of nuclear energy. Read more

Nuclear in a changing world, June 2019Preparing tomorrow’s radiological protection leaders

The second session of the NEA International Radiological Protection School (IRPS) is being held this week at the Centre for Radiation Protection Research (CRPR), Stockholm University, with the support of the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority (SSM). 31 participants from 14 countries were welcomed on Monday by Yeonhee Hah, Head of the NEA Division of Radiological Protection and Human Aspects of Nuclear Safety; Nina Cromnier, Director General of the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority (SSM); and Professor Ylva Engström, Vice Dean (prodekan) of Stockholm University Natural Sciences Faculty. The five day training features lectures and dialogues by renowned radiological protection experts on the history of the development and implementation of the international system of radiological protection. Find out more about the IRPS and this year’s programme at oe.cd/nea-irps.

Nuclear in a changing world, June 2019Nuclear in a changing world

The NEA participated in Nuclear in a changing world, a conference organised jointly by FORATOM and the Romanian Atomic Forum – ROMATOM on 26 June 2019 in Bucharest, Romania. The goal of the conference was to discuss key challenges affecting the energy sector in Europe, the role of long‑term nuclear power plant operations, and skills and capacity management in the nuclear field. NEA Director‑General William D. Magwood, IV was a keynote speaker in the opening session of the conference. During his speech, Director‑General Magwood discussed the costs of decarbonising electricity systems, the importance of modernising the electricity markets, and the potential for small modular reactor technologies. The NEA was also represented at the conference by Ms Yeonhee Hah, Head of the NEA Division of Radiological Protection and Human Aspects of Nuclear Safety, who participated in the session "How to ensure we have the necessary skills" as a panellist and addressed the importance of decades‑long knowledge management given the long life cycles of nuclear facilities. She also highlighted the NEA activities in the area of skills management, including the NEA Nuclear Education, Skills and Technology (NEST) Framework and the recent workshop on human capital and leadership challenges co‑organised with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO).

Women in Nuclear Global Annual Conference, July 2019Women in Nuclear Global Annual Conference

In June, the NEA also participated in the 27th Women in Nuclear Global Annual Conference, which provided a forum for professional women in the nuclear field on 17-21 June 2019 in Madrid, Spain. Ms Yeonhee Hah presented the "NEA Approach: Improving Gender Balance in Nuclear Energy" at the conference session on Women in the Nuclear Field. During her presentation, she highlighted ongoing NEA activities, such as the International Mentoring Workshop Series in Science and Engineering organised with the objective to encourage female high school students to explore careers in science and engineering. In 2019, two more workshops will be held: the first one in Fukushima, Japan, in August and the second one in Vigo, Spain in September. Another workshop is planned for university students and scheduled to take place in Moscow, Russia, in October.

Discussions on nuclear science

The NEA Nuclear Science Committee (NSC) held its biannual meeting on 12‑14 June 2019. At this meeting, NSC Chair John Herczeg and NSC Vice‑Chair Alain Zaetta stepped down after having led the Committee for over decade. Kemal Pasamehmetoglu of the United States and Gilles Bignan of France were elected as the new Chair and Vice‑Chair, respectively. Following presentations on the status of the Committee's programme of work, participants endorsed the creation of a task force to review and prioritise the programme based on the current needs expressed by member countries. Highlights reported at the meeting included the launch of the Nuclear Education, Skills and Technology (NEST) Framework, and the progress made by the NSC and NEA Committee on the Safety of Nuclear Installations (CSNI) in establishing a new multi‑national NEA Framework for In‑pile Fuel and Material Irradiation Experiments (FIDES) in response to the closure of the Halden Reactor. The Committee noted the importance of these two projects for the nuclear community, and endorsed the efforts of the NEA Division of Nuclear Science to facilitate these new endeavours. In support of this cross‑cutting approach, the meeting participants acknowledged the recent advances in NSC engagement with other NEA Standing Technical Committees and proposed that the Bureaus of the NSC and the CSNI explore joint sessions at their meetings.

Global Forum on Innovation for the Future of Nuclear Energy, June 2019Global Forum on Innovation for the Future of Nuclear Energy

The first Global Forum on Innovation for the Future of Nuclear Energy took place in Gyeongju, Korea, on 10‑13 June 2019, organised jointly by the NEA, the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) and the United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL). The event brought together a selective group of key stakeholders in the nuclear field who participated in interactive discussions on accelerating nuclear innovation. On the first day of the forum, NEA Director‑General William D. Magwood, IV participated in a panel session to make a baseline status update on innovation in the nuclear sector. On the second day he chaired a roundtable on regulatory insights, during which several high‑ranking regulators discussed the role of nuclear regulatory authorities in fostering innovation. During this session, Dr Fiona Rayment of the NNL joined Director‑General Magwood to launch a new summary of the outcomes of the NEA Nuclear Innovation 2050 (NI2050) initiative. The two and a half day forum concluded with the elaboration of a short list of follow‑up actions. The next Global Forum for Nuclear Innovation will take place in the United Kingdom in 2020, hosted by the NNL.

Joint Workhsop on Human Capital, June 2019Human capital and knowledge management in nuclear

The availability of skilled staff is a cornerstone of the sustainability of the nuclear energy sector both in countries already operating nuclear facilities, and those introducing nuclear power or dismantling plants. The NEA, the IAEA, and the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) held a joint workshop on 5 June 2019 to discuss common human capital and leadership challenges. The workshop discussions focused on human capital in the context of both operating nuclear power plants and new builds, keeping in mind that these human capital issues impact equally the whole nuclear life cycle from research and development, to refurbishment projects, decommissioning and dismantling, waste management as well as the supply chain. As a result of this workshop, the three organisations will consider where and what additional efforts are needed in order to attract, hire, retain and develop a talent base, and ensure the safe and effective use of nuclear energy and technology.

The Tenth Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM10), May 2019Nuclear energy in the spotlight at the 10th Clean Energy Ministerial in Vancouver

The NEA participated in the Tenth Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM10), which was hosted by the Government of Canada on 27‑29 May 2019. NEA Director‑General Magwood provided a keynote presentation at the NICE Future initiative side event Breakthroughs: Flexible Nuclear Energy Systems in a Clean Energy World. During his speech, he highlighted the role of nuclear energy within the context of clean energy systems of the future. During this event, the International Energy Agency (IEA) launched a new report entitled Nuclear Power in a Clean Energy System, which concludes that nuclear power can play an important role in clean energy transitions around the world. The event also showcased the NICE Future initiative's Breakthroughs: Nuclear innovation for clean energy systems, a collection of stories about nuclear innovations and how they enable clean energy systems. Dr Sama Bilbao y León, Head of the NEA Division of Nuclear Technology Development and Economics, provided insights on the flexibility of nuclear systems at the side event Dispatchable Clean Energy: Cutting the Cost of a Low‑Emissions Future (CEM).

IEEJ/APERC Joint International Energy Symposium, May 2019IEEJ/APERC Joint International Energy Symposium

The NEA participated in the 4th IEEJ/APERC International Energy Symposium, which was held in Tokyo, Japan on 17 May 2019. Jointly organised by the Institute of Energy Economics, Japan (IEEJ), and the Asia Pacific Energy Research Centre (APERC), the event focused on three questions: 1) How can we maintain good energy governance under uncertain geopolitical developments? 2) What will be an appropriate energy mix for the energy transition? 3) What policies, corporate strategies and changes in awareness are needed to combat climate change? NEA Director‑General Magwood gave a presentation on the future role of nuclear power in the global energy mix. During his presentation, he emphasised that all low‑carbon technologies, including nuclear energy, are needed in order to meet global energy and environmental requirements, and must be applied in an optimised fashion.

SOAS University of London visits the NEA, June 2019SOAS University of London visits the NEA

Students and faculty from the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, visited the NEA on 7 June 2019 to learn about the Agency, its role in the international nuclear energy arena and its work on the economics of nuclear power. NEA Director‑General Magwood and Senior Economic Advisor Jan Horst Keppler discussed with the students the true costs of decarbonisation and the electricity systems that will enable countries to meet carbon emission goals in the most cost‑effective manner.


NEA DG participates in the European Nuclear Energy Forum (ENEF) in Prague and visits the Temelin Nuclear Power Station, April 2019NEA DG participates in the European Nuclear Energy Forum (ENEF) in Prague and visits the Temelín Nuclear Power Station

The NEA participated in the 14th European Nuclear Energy Forum on 29‑30 April 2019. Organised under the auspices of the European Commission (EC) and the Czech Republic, the conference brought together representatives from EU governments, European institutions, the nuclear industry and regulators, electricity consumers, and civil society. The event was opened by the Prime Ministers of the Czech Republic and the Slovak Republic, and the Romanian Minister of Energy. The Forum focused on two topics: "Ageing and long‑term operation of nuclear power plants in Europe - challenges and opportunities" and "2050  Long‑term strategy".

NEA Director‑General Mr William D. Magwood, IV was a featured speaker in the opening session of the conference, which was moderated by Gerassimos Thomas, EC Deputy Director General for Energy. During his speech, Director‑General Magwood discussed the costs of decarbonising electricity systems, and noted, "If we are to realise the energy transformation to which all here aspire, the markets must be reformed to reflect true costs and to incentivise the choices and investments needed for the future." He also highlighted the importance of nuclear technology education and the potential for small modular reactor technologies.

While in the Czech Republic, Director‑General Magwood visited the Temelín Nuclear Power Station, which is the largest power resource in the country with its 2 000 MW of installed capacity. He reviewed the changes made at the plant to further enhance safety and a new project to apply nuclear‑generated steam to provide municipal heating. When implemented in 2021, this project will enable the city of České Budějoviceto decrease the burning of coal it burns 80 000 tons each year.

Country-specific safety culture forum in Finland, March 2019Decommissioning of nuclear installations and legacy management

One of the NEA’s strengths is its system of standing technical committees. These committees enable the Agency to be flexible and responsive to the changing policy needs of member countries. The newest NEA standing technical committee, the Committee on Decommissioning of Nuclear Installations and Legacy Management (CDLM) held its first plenary meeting on 21 March 2019. Comprised of policy developers and technical experts representing regulatory bodies and implementers, the committee was formed to facilitate comprehensive exchanges of national experiences and lessons learnt in the field. It also provides a platform for NEA member countries to advance the state of the art in both decommissioning and legacy management. Chair of the NEA Radioactive Waste Management Committee (RWMC), Mr Jean-Paul Minon (centre, right) launched the meeting and officiated over the election of Ms Haidy Tadros as the first chair of the CDLM. They are pictured below with NEA Director-General, Mr William Magwood, IV, Head of NEA Division of Radioactive Waste Management and Decommissioning, Ms Rebecca Tadesse, and senior members of the NEA staff. More information on the work of the CDLM is available here.

Country-specific safety culture forum in Finland, March 2019Country‑specific safety culture forum in Finland

One of the many important lessons learnt about nuclear safety over the years has been that safety culture is as important as any technical issue that may arise in the course of nuclear operations. 60 experts from the Finnish nuclear community and international observers from seven countries came together in Helsinki, Finland, on 6‑7 March to discuss country‑specific national attributes that may impact the safety culture. The event was organised by the NEA, in close co‑operation with the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) and the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK). During his remarks at the opening session, NEA Director‑General William D. Magwood, IV, highlighted the importance of understanding the national context and its relation to safety culture in order to ensure continued enhancement of nuclear safety. A summary report of the forum and its outcomes is currently in preparation. Read more

NEA Director-General William D. Magwood, IV, undertook his first official visit to Australia for meetings with the Ministry of Energy, the Australian Safeguards & Non-proliferation Office (ASNO), the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA), the Australian Nuclear Science & Technology Organisation (ANSTO), and the Energy Policy Institute of Australia (EPIA).NEA Director‑General's first official visit to Australia

NEA Director‑General Mr William D. Magwood, IV, undertook his first official visit to Australia this week for meetings with the Ministry of Energy, the Australian Safeguards & Non-proliferation Office (ASNO), the Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA), the Australian Nuclear Science & Technology Organisation (ANSTO), and the Energy Policy Institute of Australia (EPIA).

Australia has no nuclear power plants, but is the world's third largest uranium producer, holding about 30% of the world's total identified resources. Meetings with the Australian authorities highlighted uranium resource issues, but also focused on NEA analyses related to the decarbonisation of electricity systems, radioactive waste management and the NEA Nuclear Education, Skills and Technology (NEST) Framework. Also, while Australia has no current plans to build nuclear plants, in 2016 the country joined the Generation IV International Forum (GIF) for which the NEA acts as Technical Secretariat. As such, discussions with the Australian authorities covered R&D on advanced nuclear systems.

While in Australia, Director‑General Magwood visited the Open Pool Australian Lightwater (OPAL) reactor, a major producer of radioisotopes for medical applications. Australia has been a key participant in the NEA High‑level Group on the Security of Supply of Medical Radioisotopes and helps contribute to international supply through the OPAL reactor. Technical visits were also made to the Australian Centre for Neutron Scattering and the Synroc pilot plant.

On 1 March, Director‑General Magwood participated in the Nuclear Futures Forum organised by the University of New South Wales (UNSW) and delivered a lecture on NEA work and activities to UNSW students and faculty.

NEA Director-General Mr William D. Magwood, IV and senior staff visited Russia on 15 February to meet with ROSATOM Deputy Director-General Nikolay Spasskiy and staffNEA Director‑General visits Russia

NEA Director‑General Mr William D. Magwood, IV and senior staff visited Russia on 15 February to meet with ROSATOM Deputy Director-General Nikolay Spasskiy and staff. Discussions with ROSATOM covered a wide range of issues, including ROSATOM's approach to human resource development, ROSATOM programmes for leadership development and capacity building for co‑operation with international organisations. Discussions also included future co‑operation on experimental support for fuels and material development and safety culture, as well as on a number of NEA initiatives such as the NEA International Mentoring Workshop in Science and Engineering and the country‑specific safety culture forum series. During this meeting, ROSATOM also confirmed their participation in the NEA Nuclear Education, Skills and Technology (NEST) Framework Agreement, which has been established to foster a new generation of nuclear experts and leaders.

While in Russia, Director‑General Magwood met with the rector of the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI (Moscow Engineering Physics Institute) Professor Mikhail Striikhanov and gave a lecture on the current state and future prospects for nuclear energy to students and faculty. A Memorandum of Agreement between the NEA and the MEPhI was signed during this visit. The Director‑General's visit to Russia was an excellent opportunity to exchange views on nuclear safety, education and research, as well as on how to continue strengthening the NEA's engagement with Russian entities.

The European Commission (EC) visits the NEA to discuss further co-operationG20 Ministerial Meeting on Energy Transitions and Global Environment for Sustainable Growth

On 12-13 February, the NEA participated in the preparatory meetings for the G20 Ministerial Meeting on Energy Transitions and Global Environment for Sustainable Growth, which will be held on 15-16 June 2019. During the meetings, G20 countries discussed viable pathways, structural strategies and changes in transforming the energy sector towards zero-carbon energy systems. Dr Gloria Kwong, Deputy Head of the NEA Division of Radioactive Waste Management and Decommissioning, participated in the preparatory meeting and encouraged the G20 countries to engage in dialogue on developing final radioactive waste disposal solutions and contributed supporting information on nuclear energy. Another key contribution to the meeting was the recent NEA study that scrutinises the costs of decarbonising the electricity sector and sets out a policy framework for achieving carbon emissions targets in the most cost-effective manner. Download the report here: oe.cd/nea-system-costs-2019

The European Commission (EC) visits the NEA to discuss further co operation

A European Commission (EC) delegation led by Gerassimos Thomas, the Commission's Deputy Director General for Energy, visited the NEA on 31 January 2019 for high-level discussions on the current state of nuclear technology and ongoing collaboration between the two organisations. Discussions also touched on the recent NEA studies on electricity system costs and the decarbonisation of electricity systems. The NEA wishes to thank the European Commission delegation for their visit, which enabled detailed exchanges of information and ideas.

Decarbonising the Electricity System:
Time to Act Now

Many nations have committed to ambitious goals to limit emissions. Yet the world is not on track to achieve these environmental goals, nor are countries pursuing these policies in a cost effective way, concludes the Organisation for Economic Co‑operation and Development Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) in its new report The Costs of Decarbonisation: System Costs with High Shares of Nuclear and Renewables. "We have at our disposal technically mature, low‑carbon alternatives to help countries reach their environmental and energy security goals - including: solar and wind technology, hydroelectricity and nuclear power. Reaching these goals will require us to use all of these low‑carbon resources in an economically sound manner," said NEA Director‑General William D. Magwood, IV, at the report's launch in Budapest, Hungary in the presence of János Süli, Minister without portfolio responsible for the Paks II., a nuclear new‑build project in Hungary. Read more

The Costs of Decarbonisation: System Costs with High Shares of Nuclear and RenewablesWebinar: calculating the system costs of decarbonisation

On 17 January 2019, the NEA will organise a webinar to discuss the findings from its latest report – The Costs of Decarbonisation: System Costs with High Shares of Nuclear and Renewables. This report assesses the costs of alternative low-carbon electricity systems capable of achieving strict carbon emission reductions consistent with the aims of the Paris Agreement. It analyses several scenarios of deep decarbonisation achieving the same stringent carbon emission target but characterised by different shares of variable renewable technologies, hydroelectric power and nuclear energy. The launch webinar will feature introductory remarks by the OECD Secretary‑General Ángel Gurría and NEA Director‑General William D. Magwood, IV, who will lead a discussion on the importance of system costs in assessing the overall costs of the energy transitions under way. Find out more and register at oe.cd/nea-system-costs-webinar-2019.

2018 Year-in-Review

2018 was a very active and impactful year at the NEA. It marked the 60th anniversary of the Agency and brought other milestones, including the establishment of the new NEA Committee on Decommissioning of Nuclear Installations and Legacy Management. During this year, the NEA released flagship reports on emergency management, electricity costs, nuclear law and advanced nuclear fuels. It also organised events, conferences and workshops corresponding to the needs of member countries in the application and exploration of nuclear science and technology for peaceful purposes. The NEA sincerely thanks all of you for following us and for being part of the NEA community. Watch our year‑in‑review video here to see the highlights and key moments of 2018.


2018

Uranium 2018 – Resources, Production and DemandJust published: Uranium 2018 – Resources, Production and Demand

Jointly prepared by the NEA and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the 27th edition of the "Red Book" presents data from 41 uranium producing and consuming countries. The new edition provides the most recent review of world uranium market fundamentals and presents a statistical profile of the world uranium industry. It offers updated information on established uranium production centres and mine development plans, as well as projections of nuclear generating capacity and reactor‑related requirements through 2035, in order to address long-term uranium supply and demand issues. Individual country reports offer detailed information on recent developments in uranium exploration and production, on environmental activities, regulatory requirements and on relevant national uranium policies. Read more at oe.cd/nea-2018-07

Photo of ENEN President and NEA Director-General holding MoU togetherNEA Director-General visits China to further enhance technical co-operation

NEA Director General Mr William D. Magwood, IV and senior staff visited China on 7-9 November for a series of meetings with various ministries and institutions, including the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE)/National Nuclear Safety Administration (NNSA), the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA), and the National Energy Administration of China (C/NEA). Technical visits were also made to the China Institute of Atomic Energy (CIAE) and the Sanmen Nuclear Power Plant, where the world's first AP1000 third-generation nuclear reactor (Sanmen 1) is now connected to the grid. Discussions with the Chinese authorities covered a wide range of issues, including the electricity markets in China, nuclear safety culture, safety case for the disposal of radioactive waste, decommissioning and legacy management, stakeholder involvement and small modular reactors. Underlining the enhanced technical co-operation between the two parties, the first NEA-China Forum will be held in May 2019 with a focus on radioactive waste management and decommissioning.

NEA State-of-the-Art Report on Light Water Reactor Accident-Tolerant FuelsAccident Tolerant Fuels: Prospects and Possibilities

The NEA will host a webinar on Accident Tolerant Fuels: Prospects and Possibilities on Tuesday, 20 November 2018 at 16:00-17:00 Paris time. Accident tolerant fuels may offer opportunities to enhance the safety and competitiveness of commercial nuclear power plants. The NEA, as a part of its effort to advance the scientific bases needed for the development of advanced nuclear fuels, has recently published the State-of-the-Art Report on Light Water Reactor Accident-Tolerant Fuels. The report reviews the most promising advanced fuel and cladding concepts in terms of their fundamental properties and behaviour under normal and accidental conditions, maturity of technologies, supporting R&D activities, experimental data and modelling results. Find out more and register at oe.cd/nea-atf-webinar-2018

Photo of ENEN President and NEA Director-General holding MoU togetherENEN and NEA sign MOU to foster nuclear education and training

The European Nuclear Education Network (ENEN) and the NEA have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to co-operate in the field of nuclear education, training and knowledge transfer – an increasingly important concern for NEA member countries. The MoU aims to advance the ENEN and NEA's common aim of improving existing educational activities in the nuclear field, and maintaining the capability and expertise necessary to ensure the continued safe and efficient use of nuclear technology. ENEN and the NEA will cultivate joint efforts to develop education tools, approaches, methods and opportunities that will help foster the development of the next generation of nuclear scientists.

NEA regional ministerial meeting in Bucharest, Romania, October 2018Regional ministerial meeting to discuss nuclear energy, technology and radioactive waste management

Ministers and senior officials from 10 countries are exploring the benefits of enhanced regional co‑operation in the field of nuclear energy during a two day ministerial meeting in Bucharest, Romania. Co‑organised by the NEA and the government of Romania, the meeting was opened by the Vice Prime Minister of Romania, Viorel Ştefan, who confirmed the government's full support for enhanced regional co‑operation to meet the energy, socio‑economic and environmental goals of the future. A session featuring ministerial statements from all participating countries highlighted the importance of regional co‑operation on nuclear energy, technology and radioactive waste management. Read more

Decommissioning of nuclear installations and legacy management

The NEA Committee on Decommissioning of Nuclear Installations and Legacy Management held a kick-off meeting on 16-17 October 2018 in Paris, France. In close co-ordination with other NEA committees, the new committee will lead NEA activities in the areas of decommissioning of nuclear installations and legacy management. Comprised of policy developers and technical experts representing regulatory bodies and implementers, the committee will facilitate comprehensive exchanges of national experiences and lessons learnt in the field. It will also provide a platform for NEA member countries to share information on national policies and best practices in order to advance the state of the art in decommissioning and legacy management. During this week’s kick-off meeting, the participants held operational discussions on the structure and governance of the committee, as well as on its guiding documents, including its mandate, statement and future programme of work. "The CDLM has been created to address an issue of growing importance for all NEA member countries - whether they are building new nuclear power plants or phasing them out," said the Chair of the CDLM kick-off meeting, Jean-Paul Minon. "This new committee will enable the NEA to assist its members in defining strategies to address a broader range of decommissioning and legacy management issues."

NEA International Mentoring Workshop in Science and Engineering in Spain, September 2018Encouraging female scientists of the future

Building on the two previous successful events organised in Japan to encourage young female students to pursue science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), the third NEA International Mentoring Workshop in Science and Engineering was held on 24 September 2018 in Avila, Spain. The event was jointly organised with Women in Nuclear (WiN) Spain and co-sponsored by the Spanish Nuclear Safety Council (CSN), the City Council of Ávila, and the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI). The workshop featured opening remarks by Director-General Magwood, as well as a presentation on the NEA-led initiative by Yeonhee Hah, NEA Head of the Division of Radiological Protection and Human Aspects of Nuclear Safety. In his opening remarks, Director-General Magwood told participants, "We encourage you to consider careers as engineers and scientists. We need you." The workshop brought together 50 female high-school students from Spain with twelve highly accomplished women mentors, including the NEA's Sama Bilbao y León, Head of the Division of Nuclear Technology Development and Economics, and Olvido Guzmán, Radiological Protection Specialist. During the workshop, the mentors exchanged their experiences and shared advice and insights with the students. Discussions also addressed the difficulties faced by women professionals in many parts of the world and the steps that can be taken to support young women who aspire to work in these fields.

Scoping meeting on global co-ordination of low-dose research, September 2018Global co-ordination of low-dose research

The NEA organised a scoping meeting on the global co‑ordination of low-dose research on 17-18 September 2018. The event brought together 35 participants representing radiological protection research platforms, regulatory authorities and research organisations. Participants addressed issues relating to low-dose radiation research and identified ongoing and planned research programmes, as well as existing national, regional and other research collaboration and co-operation mechanisms. They also discussed mechanisms to more effectively foster global research collaboration and co-operation. It was agreed that research co-ordination, both at the national and international levels, has proved to be efficient and effective. The meeting participants recommended that the NEA should establish a high-level group to support the development of a global co-ordination and mutual support initiative. Accordingly, a proposal will be developed and presented for consideration to the NEA Committee on Radiological Protection and Public Health (CRPPH) in March 2019.

Country-Specific Safety Culture Forum: SwedenCountry-Specific Safety Culture Forum: Sweden

The NEA organised a first-of-its-kind nuclear safety culture forum in January 2018 in Sweden, in co operation with the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) and the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority (SSM), to examine the potential safety culture challenges arising from the national context. The event examined how nuclear safety culture is affected by the national cultural context of the country operating a nuclear facility. A new NEA report presents the results from the forum, based on views of representatives of the Swedish nuclear community, as expressed during focus group discussions and interviews held at the event. Find out more at oe.cd/nea-csscf-sweden The NEA organised a first-of-its-kind nuclear safety culture forum in January 2018 in Sweden, in co operation with the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) and the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority (SSM), to examine the potential safety culture challenges arising from the national context. The event examined how nuclear safety culture is affected by the national cultural context of the country operating a nuclear facility. A new NEA report presents the results from the forum, based on views of representatives of the Swedish nuclear community, as expressed during focus group discussions and interviews held at the event. Find out more at oe.cd/nea-csscf-sweden

CAEA visits the NEA to discuss further enhancements to co-operation, September 2018CAEA visits the NEA to discuss further enhancements to co‑operation

China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA) Chairman Mr ZHANG Kejian (张克俭), accompanied by the Chairman of the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), Mr YU Jianfeng, and senior representatives from the CAEA and other Chinese organisations, held high-level discussions with NEA Director-General Mr William D. Magwood, IV, and senior staff on 12 September 2018. Their discussions focused on ongoing co-operation and technical exchanges within the framework of the existing Joint Declaration on Co-operation in the Field of Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy and opportunities for future co-operation. During the discussions, NEA Director-General Magwood noted that the collaboration between the NEA and China over the past five years has enabled valuable exchanges of information and ideas from which both NEA membership and China can benefit. China has sent representatives to a growing array of NEA meetings and fora and is a full participant in the Generation IV International Forum (GIF), the Multinational Design Evaluation Programme and the International Framework for Nuclear Energy Co-operation, three NEA-serviced bodies, as well as in seven NEA joint projects. The NEA Director-General and staff meet with Chinese officials and institutions on a regular basis and the Director-General is scheduled to visit China in November for further discussions and to visit one of the newly operational Chinese nuclear power plants applying the Generation III+ AP1000 technology.

Mr Nobuhiro MuroyaMr Nobuhiro Muroya has been appointed Deputy Director‑General for Management and Planning. He took up his duties on 10 September 2018.

Mr Nobuhiro Muroya will work closely with the Director‑General and the other members of the senior management team of the NEA, providing leadership and oversight of the management of the Agency to assure that it is working effectively and efficiently to meet the needs of its member countries.

Prior to joining the NEA, Mr Muroya was the Minister's Secretariat at the Ministry of Education, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) of Japan. He previously supervised both the Secretariats of the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC), which directs the Japanese government's overall nuclear energy policy, and the Council for Science, Technology and Innovation (CSTI), which establishes national strategy for the advancement of science and technology.

Mr. Muroya holds a Bachelor degree of Engineering from the Tokyo Institute of Technology and a Master degree of Public Policy Management from the University of London.

Video thumbnailBridging the gender gap: NEA initiative to encourage girls to pursue STEM

Following its successful debut in July 2017, the NEA International Mentoring Workshop in Science and Engineering returned to Japan for the second year. Joshikai II for Future Scientists was held on 8‑9 August 2018 in Tokyo, in co‑operation with the Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA), in order to motivate young female students to explore science and engineering careers, and to suggest ways to overcome any barriers they may face along the way. Read more

NEA meeting with the NSSC Chairman Kang Jungmin, August 2018NEA Director‑General visits Korea

NEA Director‑General Mr William D. Magwood, IV, and senior staff visited Korea in August for a series of meetings with various ministries and institutions, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), the Nuclear Safety and Security Commission (NSSC), the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) and the Korea Radioactive Waste Agency (KORAD). During his visit to the NSSC, he held his first meeting with the NSSC Chairman Kang Jungmin and discussed further enhancements in co‑operation between the NSSC and the NEA. While in Korea, Director‑General Magwood also participated in the World Nuclear University (WNU) Summer Institute as an invited leader and gave a presentation entitled "Looking Forward ‑ Nuclear Energy Issues and Opportunities". During his speech, he highlighted the need for nuclear innovation, the long‑term role of nuclear energy within the context of global climate change and the importance of attracting young people to study nuclear science and engineering. The NEA is one of the founding organisations of the World Nuclear University (WNU) Summer Institute.

NEA high-level visit to Russia, July 2018NEA high-level visit to Russia

NEA Director‑General William D. Magwood, IV, and senior staff visited the Russian Federation on 26‑27 July for a series of meetings with the ROSATOM State Nuclear Energy Corporation and technical visits. Central to his visit were meetings with Mustafa Kashka, Rosatomflot Acting Director, and Vitally Trutnev, Director of ROSENERGOATOM Directorate for the Construction and Operation of Floating Nuclear Thermal Power Plants. The NEA delegation conducted a technical tour of Rosatomflot facilities and the Akademik Lomonosov, Russia's first floating nuclear power plant, which is currently being fueled in Murmansk. Technical visits were also made to Lenin Nuclear Icebreaker Museum and SevRAO, the northern centre of Rosatom subsidiary RosRAO which provides back‑end radioactive waste and decommissioning services for Russia's submarine fleet and commercial customers.

NEA Director-General William D. Magwood, IV, met with the European Commission Director-General Dominique Ristori, 24 July 2018The European Commission (EC) and NEA discuss areas of mutual interest

NEA Director‑General William D. Magwood, IV, accompanied by senior staff, met with the European Commission Director‑General Dominique Ristori on 24 July 2018 to discuss the current state of nuclear energy, ongoing collaboration between the two organisations, and plans for further strengthening co‑operation in the future. Discussions with European Commission officials also covered the importance of ensuring an effective and efficient nuclear supply chain and the importance of maintaining nuclear technology skills capacity. While in Brussels the NEA delegation met with Pierre Jean Coulon, President of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) Section for Transport, Energy, Infrastructure and the Information Society.

Hungary's Minister without Portfolio responsible of the Paks Nuclear Power Plant expansion János Süli visits the NEA, June 2018Hungarian Minister János Süli visits the NEA to discuss the Paks project

János Süli, Hungary's Minister without Portfolio, responsible for the Paks Nuclear Power Plant expansion, Becskeházi Attila Csaba, Secretary of State for infrastructure development, innovation and localisation related to the maintenance of the capacity of the Paks Nuclear Power Plant, and Ambassador Zoltán Cséfalvay, Permanent Representative of Hungary to the OECD, visited the NEA on 26 June 2018 for high‑level discussions. The Hungarian delegation met with NEA Director‑General William D. Magwood, IV, and senior staff to provide the NEA with updates on the Paks Nuclear Power Plant project. Discussions also addressed electricity system costs and the decarbonisation of electricity systems. The NEA wishes to thank the Hungarian delegation for the visit which enabled detailed exchanges of information and ideas.

The NEA participates in IEA high-level meeting on nuclear energy, June 2018The NEA participates in high‑level IEA meeting on the future of nuclear

NEA Director‑General Magwood and senior staff participated in a high‑level meeting entitled "Nuclear Energy: Today and Tomorrow", organised by the International Energy Agency (IEA) on 28 June 2018 in Paris, France. The event brought together high‑level participants from IEA member countries, industry leaders and academia who examined the role of nuclear energy in mature power markets, as well as its implications for energy security, the economy and the environment. "A consideration of the future of nuclear energy is complex not only because of technology and economic factors, which the NEA analyses closely on an ongoing basis, but also because of how it is reflected in global and national policy and politics," said NEA Director‑General Magwood at the meeting. During his speech, he also underlined the social and environmental factors of electricity provision, which affect individuals, economies and countries in ways that are not captured in market prices. He noted that the full costs of electricity generation must remain firmly on the radar of energy policy makers.

Director-General Magwood visits Poland, May 2018Director-General Magwood's visit highlights NEA commitment to support Poland
NEA Director‑General William D. Magwood, IV, undertook his first official visit to Poland on 28‑29 May 2018 for meetings with the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Investment and Economic Development, the National Atomic Energy Agency (PAA) and the National Centre for Nuclear Research (NCBJ). Central to his visit were meetings with Krzysztof Tchórzewski, Minister of Energy, Jadwiga Emilewicz, Minister of Entrepreneurship and Technology and Jerzy Kwieciński, Minister of Investment and Economic Development. Discussions covered a wide range of issues, including nuclear safety technology and regulation, the human aspects of nuclear safety, stakeholder involvement, and nuclear development. Read more

NEA Celebrates its Diamond Jubilee by Looking to the Future, April 2018Japanese State Minister Tadahiko Ito visits the NEA to discuss further co‑operation
Mr Tadahiko Ito, State Minister of the Cabinet Office and of the Environment, Japan visited the NEA on 3 May 2018 to meet with NEA representatives including Deputy Director‑General and Chief Nuclear Officer Daniel Iracane, Deputy Director‑General for Management and Planning Masahiko Fujihara, and Deputy Head of the NEA Division of Radiological Protection and Human Aspects of Nuclear Safety Ted Lazo. State Minister Ito thanked the NEA for its contributions to the recovery of Fukushima after the Great East Japan Earthquake, and discussed possible follow‑up to the 2016 NEA workshop on "Post‑accident Food Safety Science" held in Fukushima. In particular, the Minister expressed his thanks for the NEA's support for the Soma Agricultural High School students who took part in the workshop, and underlined the importance of taking care of the younger generation during the Fukushima prefecture recovery process. The State Minister also gave an update on the impressive progress with off‑site decontamination in the surrounding areas of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant and a nuclear emergency response exercise to be held in Japan later this year. Dr Iracane outlined ongoing work towards developing an international instrument to formalise the framework for post‑accident food management and the second NEA Workshop on Stakeholder Involvement in Nuclear Decision Making to be held in 2019.

NEA Steering Committee for Nuclear Energy meeting, April 2018New NEA committee to focus on decommissioning and legacy management

The NEA Steering Committee for Nuclear Energy held its biannual meeting on 19‑20 April 2018. Among the decisions taken, the committee approved the establishment of the new NEA Committee on Decommissioning of Nuclear Installations and Legacy Management, which will enable the NEA to assist its members in managing a broader range of decommissioning issues including the management of legacy sites and legacy waste. In forming the new committee, the NEA will convene a balanced composition of policy developers and experts representing regulatory bodies and implementers in order to facilitate comprehensive exchanges of experiences and best practices in the field of nuclear decommissioning and legacy management. Accordingly, the committee delegates will share their national expertise in decommissioning planning and strategies selection, as well as lessons learnt in managing decommissioning challenges. The new committee will co-ordinate closely with other NEA bodies, as well as with relevant activities in other multilateral institutions.

NEA Celebrates its Diamond Jubilee by Looking to the Future, April 2018NEA celebrates its diamond jubilee by looking to the future
Nearly 200 senior leaders in the international nuclear sector from 31 countries came together in Paris today to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) and to discuss the current state and future prospects for nuclear energy. To mark the occasion, the NEA organised a special high‑level session for senior leaders in the nuclear sector. "There have been many successes and accomplishments over the last 60 years. While we take this opportunity to recognise the tremendous contributions of the men and women who have served with the NEA over the decades, we are excited by the road before us, the challenges ahead and the as yet unknown priorities of tomorrow," said Director‑General Magwood during his opening remarks at the session. "The work of the NEA is always just beginning." Read more

First reactivity-initiated accident test at the renovated CABRI facility, 16 April 2018First reactivity-initiated accident test completed successfully at the renovated CABRI facility
Within the framework of the NEA CABRI International Project (CIP) a first test simulating a reactivity initiated accident (RIA) in conditions reproducing those in a pressurised-water reactor (PWR) was successfully carried out on 16 April 2018. The test was performed at the Cabri facility in Cadarache, France by the Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (Institute for Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety - IRSN), with the support of the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA), in the new pressurised-water loop that was installed recently as part of a major renovation programme.

The NEA CIP Project investigates fuel and cladding behaviour in PWRs during RIAs that involve a sudden localised accidental increase of core power that would arise from, for example, control rod ejection. The CIP began in March 2000 and two RIA tests using high burn-up PWR fuel were performed in 2002 in an experimental loop filled, at that time, with liquid sodium. "After ten years of major refurbishments, the Cabri reactor is now equipped with a new configuration that will enable the NEA CIP Project to study the safety behaviour of fuels in more fully representative PWR conditions," noted the NEA Deputy Director‑General and Chief Nuclear Officer Dr Daniel Iracane. "The successful completion of this test positions Cabri as a new major asset for the continuous enhancement of our knowledge base, and for the future of nuclear fuel safety worldwide."

More information on the NEA CIP project is available here.

The Full Costs of Electricity Provision cover imageWebinar on the full costs of electricity provision
On 13 April 2018, the NEA organised a webinar to discuss the findings from its latest report – The Full Costs of Electricity Provision. Market prices and production costs account for an important share of the overall economic impacts of electricity. However, there has been a growing recognition that the market value of electricity is not the whole story. As currently constituted, the price of electricity in today's markets does not accurately reflect the costs of electricity on the society and the environment. As a result, decisions made regarding supply and future planning based on current market prices fail to capture all of the factors needed to ensure reliable electricity supply in the future. This report summarises and synthesises the most recent research in full cost accounting of electricity. Find out more at oe.cd/nea‑electricity‑costs‑webinar‑2018

NEA co-sponsors the joint conference of the International Youth Nuclear Congress (IYNC) and Women in Nuclear Global, March 2018NEA co‑sponsors the joint conference of the International Youth Nuclear Congress (IYNC) and Women in Nuclear Global
The NEA co‑sponsored the International Youth Nuclear Congress (IYNC) 2018 conference, which was organised jointly with the 26th WiN Global Annual Conference in Bariloche, Argentina, on 11‑17 March 2018. The conference brought together young professionals and women in the nuclear field to discuss and to collaborate on knowledge transfer, nuclear science and technology research and implementation, professional development and communication. NEA Director‑General Mr William D. Magwood, IV, who was recognised as a key supporter who helped launch the IYNC almost 20 years ago, was a featured speaker in the keynote session on "Challenge the present, empower the future". During his speech, he highlighted the need for nuclear technology to evolve to meet future challenges and the importance of attracting young students to study nuclear science and engineering. He also noted that the NEA encourages its membership to explore ways of attracting, recruiting and retaining women in science and technology. Ms Yeonhee Hah, Head of the NEA Division of Radiological Protection and Human Aspects of Nuclear Safety, provided a keynote speech at the launch of the IYNC Mentor Program. She was also a featured speaker in the workshop session on "Strategic Communication in a Nuclear Crisis". While in Argentina, the NEA delegation visited the Embalse Nuclear Power Station, which is currently undergoing a life extension programme.

NEA official visit to Brazil, March 2018NEA official visit to Brazil
On 20 March 2018, the NEA visited The National Nuclear Energy Commission of Brazil (CNEN) to participate in an information exchange seminar organised by the CNEN's Directorate of Radiological Protection and Security (DRS) and attended by representatives from important actors in Brazil's nuclear power programme. NEA Deputy Director‑General and Chief Nuclear Officer Dr Daniel Iracane presented the Agency's activities, its role among international organisations and its work on nuclear technology, safety and radioactive waste management. Discussions addressed a wide range of associated issues, including stakeholder involvement. During the seminar NEA representatives were also introduced to the main lines of nuclear energy policy, research and education in Brazil. While in Brazil, the NEA delegation also visited the Angra Nuclear Power Plant and other institutions in order to gain insights into nuclear technology in Brazil. The seminar and the visit were both very informative and constructive, and took place in a spirit of openness, and mutual recognition of the benefits of international co‑operation. The NEA wishes to thank the CNEN and the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the well‑prepared seminar and fruitful exchanges during the visit.

Minister János Süli and NEA Director-General William D. Magwood, IV, March 2018NEA Director-General makes first visit to Hungary
On 5-6 March 2018, NEA Director-General William D. Magwood, IV, undertook his first official visit to Hungary for meetings with the Ministry of National Development, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Hungarian Atomic Energy Authority (HAEA), Public Limited Company for Radioactive Waste Management (PURAM), the Hungarian Nuclear Society and the Hungarian Young Generation Network (FINE). Central to his visit were discussions with Minister János Süli (pictured on the right), Minister István Mikola, and State Secretary for Energy Affairs András Aradszki. While in Hungary, the Director General visited the Paks Nuclear Power Plant and various other nuclear facilities, including the CERES (Cooling Effectiveness on Reactor External Surface) facility, Budapest Research Reactor, PURAM Spent Fuel Interim Storage Facility, National Radioactive Waste Repository (NRWR) and the Hungarian Academy of Sciences Centre for Energy Research. On 6 March, he delivered the lecture “Addressing Global Nuclear Challenges in an Era of Change” to students and staff at the Institute of Nuclear Techniques (NTI) of the Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME). The Director-General's visit to Hungary proved to be an excellent opportunity to exchange views on nuclear energy issues, education and research, as well as on how to continue strengthening the NEA's engagement with Hungarian entities.

NEA Director-General Magwood and staff at Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics (SINAP), February 2018NEA high-level visit to China

From 25 February to 1 March, NEA Director‑General Magwood led a high-level visit to China. Bilateral meetings were held with the Ministry of Environmental Protection (MEP), the National Nuclear Safety Administration (NNSA), the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA), the National Energy Administration (C/NEA) and the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC). Technical visits were made to the Qinshan Nuclear Power Plant and the Fuqing Nuclear Power Plant, where China is building the first Hualong One nuclear power reactor. The NEA delegation also visited some of the country's leading research centres, including the Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics (SINAP), which is leading China's development and demonstration of molten salt reactor technology; the Shanghai Nuclear Engineering Research and Design Institute (SNERDI) and the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). On 28 February, Director‑General Magwood delivered a lecture on NEA work and activities to nuclear science and engineering students at Shanghai Jiaotong University (SJTU). The visit, which was very informative and constructive, exemplified the valuable exchange of information and ideas from which China and the NEA can both benefit. Highlighting the growing relationship between the NEA and China, the Agency will welcome in March a Chinese radioactive waste expert on secondment to work at the NEA in Paris for the next two years. She will be the first Chinese expert to join the NEA's main secretariat staff.

First-of-its-kind Nuclear Safety Culture Forum Puts the Spotlight on National ContextFirst‑of‑its‑kind nuclear safety culture forum puts the spotlight on national context
The influence of national context on nuclear safety culture was the focus of the country‑specific forum held on 23‑24 January 2018 by the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) in Stockholm, Sweden, in co‑operation with the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) and the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority (SSM). The purpose of this forum was to create awareness on potential safety culture challenges related to national context, with the objective of helping organisations maintain a healthy safety culture for safe operations of nuclear installations and for effective regulatory activities. The event brought together over 60 experts from the Swedish nuclear community and international observers from France, Finland, Japan, Korea, South Africa and the United States, representing the industry and regulatory organisations. Read more

Towards an All-Hazards Approach to Emergency Preparedness and Response: Lessons Learnt from Non-Nuclear EventsJust published: Towards an All-Hazards Approach to Emergency Preparedness and Response
In the post-Fukushima context, emergency preparedness and response (EPR) in the nuclear sector is more than ever being seen as part of a broader framework. In order to achieve an all-hazards approach to emergency management, a major step in the process will be to consider experiences from the emergency management of hazards emanating from a variety of sectors. The NEA thus joined forces with the OECD and the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC) to collaborate on this report, which confirms similarities in EPR across sectors, identifies lessons learnt and good practices for the benefit of the international community and demonstrates the value of an all hazards approach. Download the report at oe.cd/nea-all-hazards-pub-2018.

Webinar launching a new NEA flagship report
On 12 January 2018, the NEA will organise a webinar to launch its latest report – Towards an All-Hazards Approach to Emergency Preparedness and Response: Lessons Learnt from Non-Nuclear Events. This new NEA report promotes a comprehensive, all-hazards and transboundary approach to serve as the foundation for enhancing national resilience and responsiveness to emergency situations, created by natural, human-made, nuclear or non-nuclear crises. Built on contributions resulting from the collaboration between the NEA, the OECD and the EU Science Hub - Joint Research Centre, and enriched with a broad range of national experiences, the report will contribute to improve the preparedness of governments facing the challenges and societal expectations related to modern emergency crises. Find out more and register at oe.cd/nea-all-hazards-2018.


2017

2017 Year-in-Review2017 year-in-review
2017 was a very active and impactful year at the NEA. It has brought many milestones, including the accessions of Argentina and Romania to the NEA and its Data Bank. The NEA signed MOUs with the National Energy Administration of China, EPRI and WANO. It also organised many events, conferences and workshops corresponding to the needs of member countries in the application and exploration of nuclear science and technology, including the Workshop on Stakeholder Involvement in Nuclear Decision Making. Watch our year-in-review video to see the highlights and key moments of 2017. The NEA sincerely thanks all of you for following us and for being part of the NEA family. Watch our video here.

Nuclear Energy Data – 2017
Nuclear Energy Data is the Nuclear Energy Agency's annual compilation of statistics and country reports documenting nuclear power status in NEA member countries and in the OECD area. Information provided by governments includes statistics on total electricity produced by all sources and by nuclear power, fuel cycle capacities and requirements, and projections to 2035, where available. Country reports summarise energy policies, updates of the status in nuclear energy programmes and fuel cycle developments. In 2016, nuclear power continued to supply significant amounts of low-carbon baseload electricity, despite strong competition from low-cost fossil fuels and subsidised renewable energy sources. Three new units were connected to the grid in 2016, in Korea, Russia and the United States. In Japan, an additional three reactors returned to operation in 2016, bringing the total to five under the new regulatory regime. Three reactors were officially shut down in 2016 – one in Japan, one in Russia and one in the United States. Governments committed to having nuclear power in the energy mix advanced plans for developing or increasing nuclear generating capacity, with the preparation of new build projects making progress in Finland, Hungary, Turkey and the United Kingdom. Further details on these and other developments are provided in the publication's numerous tables, graphs and country reports. Download the report at oe.cd/nea-data-2017

International Co operation on the Future of Nuclear EnergyNEA participates in AtomEco 2017
On 20-21 November 2017, the NEA participated in the International Public Dialogue-Forum and Exhibition AtomEco 2017 organised by Russian State Corporation ROSATOM and the Federal Environmental, Industrial and Nuclear Supervision Service (Rostechnadzor) in Moscow, Russia. Dr Gloria Kwong, Acting Head of the NEA Division of Radioactive Waste, was a featured speaker at the plenary panel session on "Clean Energy for Future Generations", and presented the role of NEA in assisting member countries to achieve safe, sustainable and socially acceptable management solutions for radioactive waste. Other speakers on the panel included the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Sergey Donskoy, Rosatom Director‑General Alexey Likhachev, the Chairman of Rostechnadzor Alexey Aleshin and the IAEA Deputy Director General Mikhail Chudadov. During the conference, the NEA also delivered two presentations on its current activities in nuclear decommissioning and the work of the NEA Crystalline Club which aims to study the long-term behaviour of hard granitic, crystalline rocks in hosting deep geological repositories for radioactive waste.

International Co operation on the Future of Nuclear EnergyInternational co‑operation on the future of nuclear energy
Over 600 participants from 67 countries and five international organisations have come together in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, to discuss the future of nuclear energy at the International Ministerial Conference on Nuclear Power in the 21st Century from 30 October to 1 November 2017. The event is organised by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), in co operation with the NEA, and hosted by the Government of the United Arab Emirates through the Ministry of Energy and the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation. During his remarks at the opening session, NEA Director‑General Mr William D. Magwood, IV, noted that the world will need to use as many tools at its disposal as possible to stabilise the future global energy framework and that nuclear energy is one of these tools able to address climate change, air pollution and energy supply security. Read more

The NEA thanks the outgoing NRA Chairman Dr Shunichi TanakaThe NEA thanks the outgoing NRA Chairman Dr Shunichi Tanaka
Dr Shunichi Tanaka served as Chairman of Japan's Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA) for the first five years of the agency's existence. The aftermath of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident presented Japan with many difficult challenges, particularly those related to public trust and confidence in the regulator. In light of such challenges, the NRA, under Dr Tanaka's leadership, took steps to establish a robust foundation for the new regulatory organisation, such as the development of improved regulatory standards. Dr Tanaka employed a sound approach to regulatory decision making that was based on independent and competent assessment of the most current scientific and technological information, free from external pressure or bias. The NEA programme of work in nuclear safety technology and regulation has benefited greatly from the technical contributions and support of the NRA during Dr Tanaka's tenure as NRA Chairman. NEA Director-General Magwood presented Dr Tanaka with a letter of thanks signed by the Director-General and the Chairs of the NEA Steering Committee for Nuclear Energy, the NEA Committee on Nuclear Regulatory Activities (CNRA) and the NEA Committee on the Safety of Nuclear Installations (CSNI) which highlights the unique and historic role he played in the years after the Fukushima Daiichi accident.

Nuclear decommissioning under spotlight in Canada
On 3‑5 October 2017, the NEA Working Party on Decommissioning and Dismantling (WPDD) held its annual meeting in Ottawa, Canada, hosted by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) in co-operation with Natural Resources Canada. Delegates from fifteen member countries and two international organisations reviewed the WPDD's current work on benchmarking in the context of nuclear power plant decommissioning costs, preparing for decommissioning, optimising the management of low-level radioactive materials and waste from decommissioning, as well as on radiological characterisation for decommissioning. Participants also discussed international developments in the field of nuclear decommissioning. During a topical session on the social aspects of decommissioning, several NEA member countries presented case studies addressing experiences and challenges in understanding and incorporating social factors in the decommissioning decision making process. The meeting ended with a special session on the decommissioning scene in Canada, which highlighted the planned, ongoing and completed decommissioning projects. The meeting participants acknowledged that the Canadian nuclear industry is taking significant steps to address its nuclear decommissioning responsibilities. Canada is seeking to accelerate the decommissioning of nuclear facilities, particularly of facilities that ceased operations many years ago, and engagement activities are ongoing at many levels amongst proponents, the regulator, government and a wide range of stakeholders.
Nuclear decommissioning under spotlight in Canada

Photo of WANO Chairman Jacques Régaldo and NEA Deputy Director‑General and Chief Nuclear Officer Daniel IracaneMOU between WANO and NEA to strengthen global nuclear safety
The World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) and the NEA have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to co‑operate on the further development of approaches, practices and methods in order to proactively strengthen global nuclear safety. The MOU serves to set out a transparent framework for co‑operation between WANO and NEA in areas related to the safe operation of nuclear power plants and the human aspects of nuclear safety. It will facilitate information exchange between the stakeholders in NEA member countries and nuclear power plant operators, enhance the common understanding of nuclear safety culture challenges and support general efforts to further enhance nuclear safety worldwide. WANO and NEA have already identified safety culture as a fundamental subject of common interest and are currently collaborating to launch in 2018 a series of country‑specific discussions to explore the influence of national culture on the safety culture. Read more

GIF Framework Agreement with Australia, 2017Australia accedes to the GIF Framework Agreement
On 14 September 2017, Australia deposited its instrument of accession to the Generation IV International Forum (GIF) Framework Agreement for International Collaboration on Research and Development of Generation IV Nuclear Energy Systems. A ceremony was held in Paris which included His Excellency Mr Brian Pontifex, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Australia to the OECD, and Dr Adrian (Adi) Paterson, CEO of the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO). The GIF is a co‑operative international endeavour which was established to carry out the research and development needed to establish the feasibility and performance capabilities of the next generation of nuclear energy systems. Australia became the 14th member of the GIF on 22 June 2016 when it signed the GIF Charter. Acceding to the Framework Agreement will allow Australia to become actively engaged in R&D projects related to Generation IV systems, particularly in R&D projects on advanced materials. For more information on GIF, see www.gen-4.org.

NEA mentoring workshop, July 2017Encouraging female scientists of the future
Encouraging female scientists of the future was the focus of the international mentoring workshop held on 25-26 July 2017 by the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), in co‑operation with Japan's National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST). The two‑day workshop took place in conjunction with QST's first International Symposium "Quantum Life Science" in Chiba, Japan. The primary participants in the workshop were 55 female high school students, accompanied by 16 teachers from various cities in Japan. The event provided the students with a rare opportunity to interact with seven highly accomplished female mentors to talk about their future careers in science and engineering. During the two-day workshop, the mentors exchanged their real‑life experiences and shared valuable advice and insight with the students. Discussions addressed the difficulties faced by women professionals in many parts of the world and the steps that can be taken to support young women who aspire to become science and technology professionals. Read more

Women who helped shape the history of nuclear science and technology, NEA News 35.1Women who helped shape the history of nuclear science and technology
A little over a year ago, the NEA moved to a new building operated by the OECD in Boulogne‑Billancourt, located in the southern suburbs of Paris. The Boulogne building was built in 1927, originally as an industrial space long used to produce telephone control units, and had recently undergone renovations to transform the interior to an office space. Because the offices were both new and undecorated, the opportunity presented itself to be creative with the new NEA meeting rooms. NEA Director-General Mr William D. Magwood, IV, was thus inspired to give a personality to the seven meeting rooms and so initiated a staff survey to choose names for the rooms. The results of the survey ranged from elements of the periodic table to nuclear reactor components or to Star Trek characters, but the final decision was made to name the rooms after notable female scientists who had advanced knowledge in the nuclear field. Seven remarkable women, with exceptional careers but who have rarely been cast into the limelight, now grace the walls of NEA meeting rooms. Find out more in the latest issue of NEA News: oe.cd/NEA-35-1.

NEA International School of Nuclear Law (ISNL), 2017NEA International School of Nuclear Law wraps up another successful session
The 17th session of the NEA International School of Nuclear Law (ISNL) was held from 21 August to 1 September 2017 in Montpellier, France, bringing together a diverse group of graduate students and professionals from across the world to learn more about the legal framework and major issues affecting the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Organised by the NEA and the University of Montpellier, the ISNL is a unique educational programme that offers participants from the academic, private and governmental sectors an in-depth look at international nuclear law, focusing on areas such as nuclear safety, environmental law, security, safeguards and nuclear liability. This year's session was attended by 64 participants from 40 countries, including numerous non‑NEA member countries, many of whom received support to attend the ISNL from the IAEA, which also provided several lecturers. The ISNL has attracted since 2001 nearly 900 participants worldwide from an increasingly diverse range of countries, many of whom are now experts in the nuclear law field.

Joshikai for Future Scientists: International Mentoring Workshop in Science and Engineering
Despite many efforts and progress over the past decades, women remain underrepresented in executive positions in science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM) fields. Many countries are working to close the gender gap and develop policies to reverse this trend. An important example is Japan, where Prime Minister Shinzō Abe has made enhancing the role of women in the economy a national priority. His government aims to increase the presence of women working in science and engineering, as well as to develop policies that empower women to progress in their careers. NEA is pleased to conduct relevant activities in support of this policy and those of other member countries wishing to explore ways of attracting, recruiting and retaining women in science and technology. In that respect, the NEA has co‑operated with Japan's National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST) to organise an international mentoring workshop that will provide about 60 female high-school students the opportunity to engage with seven highly accomplished women scientists and engineers (three from Japan, the rest from other NEA member countries) to discuss the benefits of careers in science and technology. This two-day workshop will take place in conjunction with QST's first International Symposium "Quantum Life Science" during 25-26 July 2017 in Chiba, Japan. Find out more at oe.cd/joshikai.

EPRI and NEA sign MOU to advance global nuclear research, 13 June 2017NEA and ROSATOM sign agreement at ATOMEXPO 2017
On 19-21 June 2017, the NEA participated in the ATOMEXPO 2017 International Forum, which brought together key figures in the global nuclear energy industry. Among other activities, NEA Director-General Mr William D. Magwood, IV, spoke at the opening day plenary session on the role of nuclear power in a low-carbon energy future. In his speech he noted the importance of understanding the long-term role of baseload power plants in meeting future energy requirements and environmental goals. On the first day of the Forum, the NEA and Russian State Corporation ROSATOM signed an agreement to facilitate the translation of key NEA reports into Russian in order to enable the broader dissemination within Russia of important nuclear safety information, economic analysis and the results of the scientific work at the NEA. In a widely attended signing ceremony, ROSATOM Director-General Alexey Likhachov signed the agreement on behalf of the ROSATOM and NEA Director-General Magwood signed on behalf of the NEA.

EPRI and NEA sign MOU to advance global nuclear research, 13 June 2017EPRI and NEA sign MOU to advance global nuclear research
A Memorandum of Understanding for Cooperative Activities has been signed between the NEA 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. It outlines the scope and objectives of a five-year agreement for NEA and EPRI to establish a formalised dialogue. Read more

Argentina and Romania accession ceremony, 7 June 2017Argentina and Romania to join the NEA
On 7 June 2017, the accessions of the Argentine Republic and Romania to the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) and its Data Bank were formalised with official exchange of letters between each country and Secretary-General of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Angel Gurría. An official ceremony took place in the presence of a Romanian delegation led by Prime Minister Sorin Grindeanu and Minister of Public Finance Viorel Stefan, and an Argentine delegation led by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship Susana Malcorra and Minister of Energy and Mining Juan José Aranguren. NEA Director-General William D. Magwood, IV officiated the ceremony. As each country may select the date at which its rights and responsibilities as an NEA member begins, Argentina has selected 1 September 2017 as the start of its membership and Romania has selected 15 October 2017. Both Argentina and Romania possess strong and highly experienced nuclear technology infrastructures that will enable them to be vibrant contributors to the mission of the NEA. These accessions highlight the commitment of both countries to implementing the highest standards in their national nuclear energy policies and programmes. Read more about the accessions here

Argentina and Romania to become members of the Nuclear Energy Agency
On 17 May 2017, upon recommendation of the Steering Committee for Nuclear Energy, the Council of the Organisation for Economic Co‑operation and Development (OECD) agreed to invite the Argentine Republic and Romania to become full members of the NEA and its Data Bank. These accessions will be formalised with official exchange of letters between each country and OECD Secretary‑General Angel Gurría in June 2017. Both Argentina and Romania countries have well‑established relations with the NEA. Their accession to the NEA will be mutually beneficial for both countries and the NEA membership in several fields, particularly know‑how and research activities related to pressurised heavy water reactor technology. Read more

International workshop launches the NEA Nuclear Education, Skills and Technology (NEST) FrameworkInternational workshop launches the NEA Nuclear Education, Skills and Technology (NEST) Framework
On 11-12 May 2017, the NEA organised the launch of the NEA Nuclear Education, Skills and Technology (NEST) Framework with a workshop that brought together 50 representatives from 19 member countries. No matter what their energy policy is, nuclear skills and education is an increasingly important challenge for NEA member countries, all of whom need to have a new generation of highly-qualified scientists and engineers to ensure the continued safe and efficient use of nuclear technologies for a wide range of industrial, scientific and medical purposes. The NEA has developed the NEST Framework in partnership with its member countries in order to help address gaps in nuclear skills capacity building and knowledge transfer through multinational collaboration. Participants at the workshop discussed national education and training needs, priorities and practices. The workshop concluded with a common understanding on and a shared interest in the NEST Framework. Formal decisions by member countries on the practicalities associated with the framework will follow in the coming months.

NEA and China's National Energy Administration sign MOU to strengthen co-operationNEA and China's National Energy Administration sign MOU to strengthen co-operation
On 28 April 2017, the NEA and the National Energy Administration of China (C/NEA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in the Field of Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy, enhancing co‑operation between both parties. An official ceremony was held in Beijing, China, at which C/NEA Deputy Administrator Li Fanrong signed the MoU on behalf of the C/NEA and NEA Director‑General William D. Magwood, IV, signed on behalf of the NEA. The agreement foresees co‑operation in a number of fields, including nuclear energy development, nuclear safety research and radiological protection. The memorandum of understanding between the NEA and the C/NEA represents further progress in the growing collaboration between China and the Agency, and complements the memorandum of understanding signed by the NEA and the National Nuclear Safety Administration (NNSA) of China in 2014 and the Joint Declaration on Co‑operation signed by the NEA and the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA) in 2013.

NEA expert receives award for international co-operation from KoreaNEA expert receives award for international co-operation from Korea
Dr Henri Paillère, NEA's Senior Nuclear Analyst and Acting Head of the Division of Nuclear Development, has been honoured with the Award for Person of Merit for International Co-operation in Nuclear Industry by the Korean Ministry of Science, ICT and Future Planning. The honour was awarded in recognition of Dr Paillère's dedication and service for the promotion of co-operation between Korea and the NEA, including through his work in support of the Generation IV International Forum (GIF) and the International Framework for Nuclear Energy Cooperation (IFNEC). "We are very pleased to see Dr Paillère's accomplishments being acknowledged," NEA Director-General Mr Magwood said. "We are very fortunate to have outstanding people like Henri at the Agency."

China Atomic Energy Authority visits the NEA to discuss co-operationChina Atomic Energy Authority visits the NEA to discuss co-operation
On 14 April 2017, Mr WANG Yiren, China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA) Vice Chairman, and representatives from the CAEA met with NEA Director‑General Mr William D. Magwood, IV, and senior staff to provide the NEA with an overview of the Chinese nuclear power programme. They also discussed co‑operation in a number of areas, including stakeholder involvement in nuclear decision making, which is acknowledged by the NEA community as an important issue and is a growing concern in China. Discussions underlined that both China and the NEA Membership share the objective of the safe, environmentally sound and efficient use of nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. Accordingly, the NEA and CAEA intend to extend the technical exchanges within the framework of the existing Joint Declaration on Co‑operation in the Field of Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy, which was signed in 2013. This very constructive visit exemplified the valuable exchanges of information and ideas from which both China and the NEA can benefit.

NEA workshop on Regulatory Oversight of New Licensee Organisational Capability, March 2017Regulatory oversight of organisational capability
On 20-22 March 2017, the NEA held a workshop on Regulatory Oversight of New Licensee Organisational Capability in Chester, United Kingdom, jointly organised by the NEA Working Group on the Regulation of New Reactors (WGRNR) and the NEA Working Group on Human and Organisational Factors (WGHOF), in collaboration with the UK's Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR). The workshop attracted more than 40 participants from 15 countries, representing a wide range of experts in licensing of new build reactors and in human and organisational factors. It addressed cross-cutting issues that arise when a prospective nuclear licensee develops its organisational capability and a regulatory body prepares itself for and delivers the regulatory oversight of a prospective licensee's organisational capability. The programme featured three breakout sessions on challenges in developing organisational capability, regulatory challenges with new licensees and oversight of contractors and suppliers by new licensees. The workshop provided an opportunity for the participating experts to share their regulatory approaches and experiences, to exchange views on resolving the challenges faced by prospective licensees and nuclear regulatory bodies, and to identify commendable practices in regulatory oversight of new licensee organisational capability.

Building a scientific community around material test reactors: The NEA and the Foundation for Future International Jules Horowitz Experimental Programs (FIJHOP) discussed preparations for the initial experiments that will take place at the Jules Horowitz Reactor (JHR), March 2017Building a scientific community around material test reactors
On 22 March 2017, the NEA welcomed experts from the Foundation for Future International Jules Horowitz Experimental Programs (FIJHOP) to discuss preparations for the initial experiments that will take place at the Jules Horowitz Reactor (JHR), and how the NEA can build a framework to facilitate co-operation between material test reactors (MTRs) and the scientific community. The seminar highlighted the unique experimental capacity of the JHR, allowing scientists to address industry relevant questions involving the behaviour of irradiated fuels and materials under wide-ranging conditions. Connecting this experimental capacity to relevant NEA activities, including the NEA Working Party on Multi-scale Modelling of Fuels and Structural Materials for Nuclear Systems (WPMM), the NEA Expert Group on Accident-tolerant Fuels for LWRs (EGATFL), the NEA Working Group on Fuel Safety (WGFS) and the Nuclear Innovation 2050 (NI2050) Initiative, was determined to be a key component to fulfil FIJHOP's objectives. In follow-up to the seminar, the NEA will organise an international workshop devoted to establishing a systematic qualification process for improving turnaround time between the development of innovative fuels and materials tested at MTRs and their licensing and deployment for commercial applications.

Workshop on Current and Emerging Methods for Optimising Safety and Efficiency in Nuclear Decommissioning, February 2017Optimising safety and efficiency in nuclear decommissioning
On 7-9 February 2017, the NEA in collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) held a Workshop on Current and Emerging Methods for Optimising Safety and Efficiency in Nuclear Decommissioning, an issue of growing importance for many countries worldwide. Hosted in Norway by the Institute for Energy Technology (IFE) on behalf of the NEA Halden Reactor Project, the workshop was attended by more than 100 participants from 25 countries, representing a wide range of stakeholders, including operators, regulators, scientists, consultants and contractors. It provided an opportunity for the participating experts to exchange information and views on lessons learnt from ongoing and completed decommissioning projects; ongoing and future R&D and collaboration needs; and methods for improving decommissioning strategies. The workshop programme also featured demonstrations of advanced computer-aided technologies in support of decommissioning planning. Participants concluded that the sharing of knowledge and experiences and technology demonstrations at the workshop would be useful for many nuclear facilities worldwide in addressing the existing decommissioning challenges. Workshop presentations are available online at oe.cd/1On

Stakeholder support and involvement essential to future of nuclear energy decision makingStakeholder support and involvement essential to future of nuclear energy decision making
Over 130 experts from 26 countries have come together to discuss international best practices and concluded that stakeholder support and involvement are essential to achieving accepted and sustainable decisions for nearly all aspects of nuclear energy. On 17-19 January 2017, the experts convened in Paris at the NEA Workshop on Stakeholder Involvement in Nuclear Decision Making to compare their vast array of experiences and to identify approaches that help contribute, or not, to stakeholder confidence; to discuss the laws, policies and programmes underway in different countries; and to develop a collective wisdom from which all may learn and benefit. In addition to sharing experiences and best practices, during the workshop participants debated such questions as who among the members of the public and other stakeholders should be informed and how science should be used to address their concerns regarding the choices to be made; in what ways can the full array of viewpoints be put into a balanced perspective; and what roles can and should social media play in engaging with stakeholders. Read more


2016

Developing and implementing geological repositories for long-lived radioactive wasteDeveloping and implementing geological repositories for long-lived radioactive waste
On 6-9 December 2016, the NEA and the French national radioactive waste management agency Andra held the fifth International Conference on Geological Repositories (ICGR) in Paris, France. The conference, on "Continued Engagement and Safe Implementation of Geological Repositories", convened senior‑level decision‑makers representing international and national bodies from countries that are in different stages of implementing deep geological repository programmes. Participants underlined the added value of international co‑operation for the safe implementation of geological repository projects and concluded that deep geological repositories remain a viable and safe option for the management of radioactive waste. The scientific knowledge and technical bases relating to the disposal of radioactive waste are being enhanced and the technical design of repositories will be further optimised through current and future R&D programmes. Participants also noted that current strategies for repository implementation follow international standards, recommendations and best practices for nuclear safety and security. The important role of continued stakeholder dialogue in advancing a geological repository project was also highlighted. Conference proceedings are in preparation and will be issued online.

MOU to enhance co-operation between NEA and KORADMOU to enhance co-operation between NEA and KORAD
On 6 December 2016, the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) of the Organisation for Economic Co‑operation and Development (OECD) and the Korea Radioactive Waste Agency (KORAD) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in the Area of Management of Radioactive Waste and Spent Nuclear Fuel, fostering co‑operation between both parties. A signing ceremony was held in the presence of Dr Jong‑In Lee, KORAD President and Chief Executive Officer, and Mr William D. Magwood, IV, NEA Director‑General. The MOU specifically aims to facilitate and support co‑operation within the framework of the NEA Radioactive Waste Management Committee (RWMC) activities.

NEA workshop on Post-accident Food Safety Science, November 2016, Fukushima, JapanEnsuring food safety in a post-accident situation
On 8-10 November 2016, the NEA held an international workshop on "Post‑accident Food Safety Science" in Fukushima, Japan. Hosted by the Cabinet Office of the Government of Japan, the workshop brought together 137 participants, including experts and scientists from ten countries and local residents, to discuss the state of the art in post‑accident food safety science; the local, national and international management of post‑accident food safety; and approaches for addressing associated challenges. The workshop started with two sessions describing the current state of food and agriculture in Japan and the extensive work done in the aftermath of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident by farmers, distributors, prefectures and the central government to ensure that marketed products meet rigorous national standards. The final two sessions addressed the international standards, decontamination and measurement science, as well as the post‑Chernobyl food management experience of Belarus, Norway and the United Kingdom. The workshop, which also featured a technical site visit to several food monitoring facilities, concluded that food management efforts of Japan were excellent and represented a good technical example for other countries.

Canada joins extension of the GIF Framework AgreementCanada joins extension of the GIF Framework Agreement
On 21 October 2016, Canada signed and deposited its instrument of acceptance for the ten-year extension of the Framework Agreement for International Collaboration on Research and Development of Generation IV Nuclear Energy Systems. A ceremony was held at the OECD Château which included the Honourable Michelle d'Auray, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Canada to the OECD, and Mr William D. Magwood, IV, NEA Director‑General. The Generation IV International Forum (GIF) is a co‑operative international endeavour which was established to carry out the research and development needed to establish the feasibility and performance capabilities of the next generation of nuclear energy systems. For more information on GIF, see www.gen-4.org.

NEA participates in the World Energy CongressNEA participates in the World Energy Congress
On 9-11 October 2016, NEA Director‑General Mr William D. Magwood, IV was in Turkey for a series of meetings with Turkish ministries and authorities, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, the Turkish Atomic Energy Authority and the Turkish Energy Market Regulatory Authority. On 10 October, he was featured among the invited speakers at the 23rd World Energy Congress in Istanbul, Turkey, the World Energy Council's global event and multi‑energy forum. He spoke about the key drivers defining the future of nuclear power during the panel session on "Tomorrow's nuclear and today's realities". During his speech, he discussed the potential role of nuclear energy in combating climate change within the IEA 2°C scenario and noted that "when comparing nuclear with other sources, on a level playing field nuclear performs very well." Mr Magwood was also a guest speaker at the Bosphorus Energy Club session on "Current Global Energy Dynamics for Decision Makers".

Developing sustainable decision-making in radioactive waste managementDeveloping sustainable decision-making in radioactive waste management
Participants from 14 countries explored how sustainable decisions can be developed in radioactive waste management at the 10th national workshop of the NEA Forum on Stakeholder Confidence (FSC). Focused on "Bridging Gaps – Developing Sustainable Intergenerational Decision-making in Radioactive Waste Management", the workshop took place on 7-9 September 2016 in Bern, Switzerland with the support of the Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE) and the participation of Swiss stakeholders. Opening remarks were delivered by the NEA Director‑General William D. Magwood, IV, and Swiss Federal Councillor Doris Leuthard. The workshop provided a forum for the participants from around the world to learn from each other's experiences and to discuss what can be done today to take sustainable decisions which can be understood and accepted by future generations. Participants included a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from the Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE), the Swiss Federal Nuclear Safety Inspectorate (ENSI) and the Swiss implementer Nagra (National Cooperative for the Disposal of Radioactive Waste), as well as representatives of local communities and members of the public concerned, including ten young people between the ages of 16 and 25.

International School of Nuclear Law (ISNL), 2016Global interest in the NEA International School of Nuclear Law
The 16th session of the NEA International School of Nuclear Law (ISNL) was held from 22 August to 2 September 2016 in Montpellier, France, bringing together a diverse international group of graduate students and professionals from across the globe to learn more about the legal framework and major issues affecting the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Organised by the NEA and the University of Montpellier, the ISNL is a unique academic programme that offers participants from the academic, private and governmental sectors an in‑depth look at international nuclear law issues affecting the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, focusing on areas such as nuclear safety, environmental law, security, safeguards and nuclear liability. This year's session was attended by 57 participants from 34 countries, including several non‑NEA member countries, many of whom received support to attend the ISNL from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) which also provided several lecturers. The ISNL has attracted since 2001 over 800 participants worldwide from an increasingly diverse range of countries, many of whom are now experts in the nuclear law field.

Committee of the South Australian Parliament visits the NEACommittee of the South Australian Parliament visits the NEA
On 31 August 2016, the Honourable Dennis Hood, Chair of the Committee of the South Australian Parliament and Member of the Legislative Council, and representatives from the Committee met with the NEA Deputy Director-General and Chief Nuclear Officer Dr Daniel Iracane and staff to discuss the possible development of nuclear energy-related activities in South Australia, with a main focus on radioactive waste management. Discussions addressed a wide range of associated issues, including safety, economics and international regulatory frameworks. The NEA wishes to thank the Committee for the visit which enabled detailed exchanges of information and ideas.

Ensuring the long-term sustainable supply of medical radioisotopesEnsuring the long-term sustainable supply of medical radioisotopes
The NEA High-level Group on the Security of Supply of Medical Radioisotopes (HLG-MR) met on 19-21 July 2016. During the meeting, participants reviewed market demand and projections for molybdenum-99 (99Mo) irradiation and processing capacity for the period 2016-2021. An Association of Isotope Producers and Equipment Suppliers (AIPES) representative also gave a briefing on recent market performance and near-term planning of capacity co‑ordinated by an AIPES Working Group. Participants noted that supply has been reliable, without disruption to health systems, and that capacity is expected to continue to meet demand, although with some periods of risk if there are any unexpected facility outages. Overall, baseline capacity from existing producers has increased and projections remain positive despite the shutdown of the OSIRIS reactor in France and the planned cessation of routine production at the National Research Universal (NRU) reactor in Canada. Information was also provided on new capacity based on technologies that do not require highly enriched uranium, which also contribute to international nuclear non-proliferation efforts. Participating members recognised that more work is needed to fully implement full-cost recovery pricing and to encourage new production infrastructure in order to ensure the long-term sustainable supply of this important medical radioisotope.

Japan's siting process for the geological disposal of high-level radioactive wasteJapan's siting process for the geological disposal of high‑level radioactive waste
Upon request by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) of Japan, the NEA carried out an independent peer review of Japan's siting process and criteria for the geological disposal of high-level radioactive waste in May 2016. Organised according to NEA guidelines for international peer reviews for radioactive waste, the review aimed to assess the suitability and applicability of the Japanese site screening process to identify appropriate or inappropriate areas for the geological disposal of high-level radioactive waste, in comparison with international best practices. The review concluded that the nationwide scientific screening process is generally in accordance with international practices. The new NEA report entitled Japan's Siting Process for the Geological Disposal of High‑level Radioactive Waste presents the key findings of the review, as well as the potential areas of improvement recommended by the international review team. Download the report at oe.cd/1ry.

Australia joins the Generation IV International Forum (GIF)
Following unanimous acceptance by the Generation IV International Forum (GIF) members, Australia became the 14th member of the Forum on 22 June 2016. The GIF Charter was signed by Dr Adrian (Adi) Paterson, CEO of the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO). With a staff of about 1 200 people, 250 of whom have doctorate degrees, ANSTO has a balanced mix of fundamental and applied research capabilities, with research facilities in the field of material science centred around the Open Pool Australian Lightwater (OPAL) reactor, a multi‑purpose research reactor that also produces medical radioisotopes. Neutron beam instruments which use OPAL's neutrons are used for characterising materials. In addition, ANSTO has several accelerators for ion beam analyses. In order to become fully engaged in the GIF's research activities, particularly in the area of materials for very high temperature and molten salt reactors for which ANSTO has expressed interest, Australia will need to sign the GIF Framework Agreement and its Extension. For more information on GIF, see www.gen-4.org.

China signs extension of the Generation IV International Forum (GIF) Framework AgreementNEA takes part in the World Nuclear Exhibition
On 28-30 June 2016, the NEA participated in the second World Nuclear Exhibition (WNE) in Le Bourget, France, which brought together key figures in the global nuclear energy industry. NEA Director‑General Mr William D. Magwood, IV was a featured speaker in the panel discussions on "Innovations for 21st Century Nuclear Energy" and "Safety, Quality and Project Delivery Certainty – Key Ingredients for Any Successful Major Project". Mr Magwood also chaired the WNE Awards Ceremony, which bestowed the award for progress in nuclear safety upon AREVA for modular multi‑purpose robots in support of nuclear investigation operations. Dr Jaejoo Ha, Head of the NEA Division of Nuclear Development, participated in the panel discussion on "Pragmatic Management of the Back-end of the Fuel Cycle – A Pathway to Sustainability". NEA representatives were present throughout the Exhibition at its publications and information stand.

China signs extension of the Generation IV International Forum (GIF) Framework AgreementChina signs extension of the Generation IV International Forum (GIF) Framework Agreement
On 23 June 2016, the People's Republic of China signed the ten-year extension of the Framework Agreement for International Collaboration on Research and Development of Generation IV Nuclear Energy Systems. A signing ceremony was held at the OECD in the presence of His Excellency ZHAI Jun, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to France, and Mr William D. Magwood, IV, NEA Director-General. The Generation IV International Forum (GIF) is a co-operative international endeavour which was set up in 2005 to carry out the research and development needed to establish the feasibility and performance capabilities of the next generation of nuclear energy systems. For more information on GIF, see www.gen-4.org.

Safety of nuclear installationsSafety of nuclear installations
The NEA Committee on the Safety of Nuclear Installations (CSNI) held its biannual meeting on 8‑9 June 2016. As part of its normal programme of work, the Committee approved 13 new tasks and 10 reports, including the final report of the NEA Senior Expert Group on Safety Research Opportunities Post‑Fukushima (SAREF), which was established to identify research activities that would address safety research knowledge gaps and support safe and timely decommissioning in Japan. In its report, the group recommends activities that can take advantage of the information and insight gained from the decommissioning of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant both in the near term and the long term. Among the two near-term activities suggested by SAREF are a preparatory study for actual fuel debris analysis and a project to collect and analyse information from the reactor buildings and containment vessels of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. Participating members agreed that these two near-term activities should be further developed into proposals for joint projects to be considered by the Committee at its next meeting in December 2016.

Nuclear regulatory activitiesNuclear regulatory activities
The NEA Committee on Nuclear Regulatory Activities (CNRA) held its biannual meeting on 6‑7 June 2016. Among the decisions taken, it approved the release of the Report of the Survey on the Design Review of New Reactor Applications: Volume 4 – RCS and Associated Systems. It agreed to proceed with next steps for formulating a mandate with priorities and milestones for an ad hoc group on safety culture. It also agreed to hold a topical discussion on the impact of the economic situation on relations between licensees and regulatory bodies at the next CNRA meeting in December 2016. Additionally, participation was encouraged in the forthcoming NEA Workshop on Stakeholder Involvement in Decision Making to be held on 17‑19 January 2017 in Paris, France. During the meeting, the Committee recognised the valuable contributions of its outgoing chair, Dr Jean Christophe Niel, up until recently Director‑General at the French Nuclear Safety Authority (ASN) and now Director‑General at the French Institute for Radiological Protection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN), and elected its new Chair, Mr Victor McCree of the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).

Nuclear regulatory activitiesContinued engagement and safe implementation of geological repositories
The fifth International Conference on Geological Repositories (ICGR) will take place on 6‑9 December 2016 in Paris, France. The conference, on "Continued Engagement and Safe Implementation of Geological Repositories", aims to take stock of progress made since 2012 in developing and implementing geological repositories for long-lived radioactive waste, and to facilitate mutual learning through exchanges of international perspectives and experiences. It will convene senior-level decision-makers from countries with active programmes for deep geological repositories and provide a forum to explore how the various actors manage the implementation of repository programmes in their countries. For more information and to register, visit www.icgr2016.org.

NEA offical visit to Russia, May 2016NEA official visit to Russia
On 18 May 2016, the NEA visited ROSATOM Central Institute for Continuing Education and Training (CICE&T) to discuss ongoing and future co-operation under NEA auspices in the areas of nuclear skills capability building, knowledge transfer and technical innovation to support future generations of nuclear scientists and engineers for continued safe use of nuclear energy. ROSATOM-CICE&T has been co-operating with the NEA Data Bank since 2014, mainly on computer codes and training courses that support competence building for nuclear safety assessment. During the visit, NEA representatives were also introduced to the main lines of ongoing ROSATOM-CICE&T activities in the area of nuclear safety culture, which is among the Institute's highest priorities. The visit was very informative and constructive, and took place in a spirit of openness and mutual benefit from co-operation.

IFNEC Conference, May 2016Addressing challenges and opportunities regarding the financing of nuclear power plant projects
Over 150 leading stakeholders from more than 30 countries convened at the international conference on "Nuclear energy's role in the 21st century: addressing the challenge of financing" to discuss the primary challenges faced by the markets and to develop implementable approaches and solutions. The conference was held on 11‑12 May 2016 in Paris, France by the International Framework for Nuclear Energy Cooperation (IFNEC), in co‑operation with the NEA, and is the latest IFNEC instalment of a multi‑year, stakeholder‑wide focus on the financial challenges faced by nuclear energy‑related projects. Read more

Nuclear safety research at the Halden reactorNuclear safety research at the Halden reactor
On 9 May 2016, the NEA Halden Reactor Project, the Agency's longest-running and largest joint project, convened the Enlarged Halden Programme Group (EHPG) meeting in Norway. The meeting gathered nearly 250 delegates from 22 countries and featured a keynote speech by the NEA Director‑General Mr William D. Magwood, IV, entitled "Looking Forward: Nuclear Science Addressing the Challenges of the Future." The plenary session also addressed such other topics as innovation in the nuclear field, the progress of nuclear new build in Finland, and the challenges associated with nuclear R&D and its funding. The subsequent technical sessions on fuels and materials (F&M) and man-technology-organisation (MTO) covered all the main areas of the project, including reports on the joint and participant-sponsored programme results. The meeting also included system demonstration sessions showing applications of virtual reality.

Addressing challenges and opportunities regarding the financing of nuclear power plant projects
Over 150 leading stakeholders from more than 30 countries convened at the international conference on "Nuclear energy's role in the 21st century: addressing the challenge of financing" to discuss the primary challenges faced by the markets and to develop implementable approaches and solutions. The conference was held on 11‑12 May 2016 in Paris, France by the International Framework for Nuclear Energy Cooperation (IFNEC), in co‑operation with the NEA, and is the latest IFNEC installment of a multi‑year, stakeholder‑wide focus on the financial challenges faced by nuclear energy‑related projects. Read more

Spotlight on the financing of decommissioningSpotlight on the financing of decommissioning
On 22 April 2016, the NEA Steering Committee for Nuclear Energy held a policy debate on the financing of decommissioning, an increasingly important issue in NEA member countries as commercial nuclear power continues into its sixth decade and a growing number of nuclear reactors are at or reaching the decommissioning phase. Speakers included Mr Simon Carroll of the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority (SSM), Mr Raymond Cron of the Swiss Administrative Commission of the Decommissioning Fund and the Disposal Fund for Nuclear Installations, Mr Louis du Pasquier of the French Ministry of Environment, Energy and Sea, Mr John Mauti of Ontario Power Generation, and Mr Paul Gunter of Beyond Nuclear (a US-based interest group). Participants in the debate recognised that there are differences in decommissioning funding and benchmarking processes across countries, and that there is no single best system that optimally fits all national contexts and legal frameworks. They reaffirmed the validity of the "polluter pays" principle to cover anticipated and unanticipated costs of the decommissioning of nuclear power plants in order to avoid placing burdens on future generations. The need to expand and improve cost benchmarking data was also highlighted.

13th NEA International Nuclear Regulatory Inspection Activities Workshop, April 2016International nuclear regulatory inspection practices
On 17-21 April 2016, the NEA Working Group on Inspection Practices (WGIP) held the 13th International Nuclear Regulatory Inspection Activities Workshop. Hosted by the Belgian nuclear regulatory body Federal Agency for Nuclear Control (FANC) and Bel V in Bruges, Belgium, the workshop was attended by 58 participants from 18 countries. It provided a forum for inspectors from around the world to discuss inspection practices and to exchange insights on current issues. Topics addressed included experience from inspection activities during the transition from an operating reactor to a defueled status with a commitment to permanently cease power operations, the inspection of modifications and the inspector's role in the enforcement process. The workshop proceedings will include commendable inspection practices to help nuclear regulatory organisations improve their inspection programmes.

Daniel IracaneNew senior appointment: Daniel Iracane, New NEA Deputy Director‑General and Chief Nuclear Officer

The OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Daniel Iracane as the new Deputy Director‑General and Chief Nuclear Officer of the NEA.

Dr Iracane will support the NEA Director‑General to further enhance the technical excellence of the Agency's work and strive for greater horizontal collaboration both within the NEA and with relevant elements of the OECD. He will represent the NEA and its work in international fora to ensure close co-operation with member countries and act in the Director General's stead as needed. Read more

Five years after the Fukushima Daiichi accidentPublic communications of nuclear regulatory organisations: Asian perspective
On 5 April 2016, the NEA Working Group on Public Communication of Nuclear Regulatory Organisations (WGPC) held its third international workshop in Tokyo, Japan, in collaboration with the Nuclear Regulation Authority (NRA) of Japan, the Korean Nuclear Safety and Security Commission (NSSC), the Korea Institute of Nuclear Safety (KINS) and the Indian Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB). Participants included a wide range of stakeholders, including the media, communication experts, government officials and NGOs from Asian countries, notably China, India, Japan and Korea. Opening remarks were delivered by the NEA Director‑General William D. Magwood, IV, and Commissioner Nobuhiko Ban of the NRA. The main objective of the workshop was to stimulate co-operation and to improve communication of nuclear regulatory organisations by better understanding stakeholders' perceptions, needs and expectations in the Asian region. The two previous workshops were held in France in 2014 with European stakeholders and in the United States in 2015 with North American stakeholders. Important findings from this workshop include the need for nuclear regulatory organisations to organise periodic and regular exchanges with the media and stakeholders not only during times of emergency, but also during routine periods in order to build strong relationships between the two parties. The group plans to issue a comprehensive report compiling the results from the three workshops.

International launch of the new NEA report on the Fukushima Daiichi Accident, February 2016Regulatory oversight of the commissioning of new reactors
On 14-15 March 2016, the NEA Working Group on the Regulation of New Reactors (WGRNR) and the Multinational Design Evaluation Programme (MDEP), in collaboration with the Korean Institute of Nuclear Safety (KINS), held their first joint workshop. During the two day-workshop, in Gyeongju, Korea, 68 regulators and experts from 15 countries tackled 11 major issues which were identified as being challenging or safety-significant during the commissioning phase for new reactors. After a thorough review of the commissioning activities of the MDEP design-specific working groups, the participants discussed lessons learnt, commendable practices and open challenges concerning the commissioning of new nuclear power plants. They also agreed on messages to be conveyed to industry stakeholders. A report will be prepared based on the workshop discussions and will propose commendable practices to help nuclear regulatory organisations develop their commissioning oversight programme as well as plan and perform their commissioning oversight activities.

Nuclear multi-physics computation
On 2-3 March 2016, the NEA Expert Group on Multi-Physics Experimental Data, Benchmarks and Validation (EGMPEBV) held its fourth meeting. Participants reviewed the progress of the group's two task forces and finalised a report on the "Definition and Scope of Multi-Physics Applications". There was also a report from a sub-group of experimenters who had collaborated on a review of the "State-of-the-art and Novel Experimental Techniques Applied to the Pellet-Clad Interaction (PCI) in Reactivity Insertion Accidents (RIA) Challenge", which was initially based on the capabilities available at the CABRI reactor facility at CEA Cadarache. Discussions were also held on the formation of the group's third task force, whose objective is to propose and execute experiment-based benchmarks for realistic configurations, where multi-physics phenomena can be observed and measured. Its initial focus will be on VVER‑type reactor plant start-up measurements, data from which is now being synthesised into benchmark format by Russian participants.

Nuclear safety five years after the Fukushima Daiichi accident
The OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) has just published a new report entitled Five Years after the Fukushima Daiichi Accident: Nuclear Safety Improvements and Lessons Learnt.

The report focuses on the actions undertaken by the NEA and its member countries at the national and international levels to improve nuclear safety and to implement the lessons learnt from the March 2011 accident. It also offers a series of conclusions and identifies some of the challenges that remain. Press release | 日本語

International launch of the new NEA report on the Fukushima Daiichi Accident, February 2016New NEA report on five years after the Fukushima Daiichi accident
On 29 February 2016, the NEA held a live webcast and press conference for its latest report on Five Years after the Fukushima Daiichi Accident: Nuclear Safety Improvements and Lessons Learnt. Opening remarks were delivered by his Excellency Ambassador Kazuo Kodama, Permanent Representative of the Delegation of Japan to the OECD, and Mr William D. Magwood, IV, NEA Director‑General. A detailed presentation was then given on the report's main findings and key messages, followed by a question and answer session.


Former NEA expert Mr Javier Reig honoured with Rostechnadzor's official awardFormer NEA expert honoured with Rostechnadzor's official award
Mr Javier Reig, former Head of the NEA Division of Nuclear Safety Technology and Regulation, was awarded with the Alexandrov medal at a ceremony hosted by the Embassy of the Russian Federation in France on 11 February 2016. The medal was presented by Dr Alexey Ferapontov, Deputy Chairman of Rostechnadzor, in the presence of His Excellency Ambassador Alexander Orlov. The honour was awarded in recognition of the significant contributions Mr Reig has made through his work at the NEA to the establishment and development of dynamic relations between the Russian Federation and the NEA.

Nuclear Finance Conference, May 2016Nuclear energy's role in the 21st century: addressing the challenge of financing
The International Framework for Nuclear Energy Cooperation (IFNEC) and the NEA will organise a conference on the financing of nuclear power plant projects on 11‑12 May 2016 in Paris, France. Investment in clean energies, including nuclear power, creates opportunities to reduce fossil fuel dependence, promote energy security and foster innovation. However, new nuclear build projects face a number of barriers, including high upfront costs, high perceived risk and long investment timelines. The situation is exacerbated by weak carbon pricing, lack of predictable and stable policy and regulatory environment, electricity market deficiencies and high financing costs. The conference, by invitation only, will convene leading stakeholders from energy planning authorities, regulators and export credit agencies, as well as vendors, utilities, bankers, rating agencies and insurers, to identify key barriers and develop implementable approaches to address the financing of nuclear projects. For additional information or to request an invitation, please see the IFNEC website.

International launch of five years after the Fukushima Daiichi accident
On 29 February 2016, the NEA held a live webcast and press conference to launch and disseminate the findings from its latest report on Five Years after the Fukushima Daiichi Accident: Nuclear Safety Improvements and Lessons Learnt. Read more

The scope of the Nuclear Innovation 2050 (NI2050) roadmappingNuclear Innovation 2050 (NI2050) – A roadmap to a carbon‑free energy future
The NEA Nuclear Innovation 2050 (NI2050) initiative aims at i) mapping the ongoing nuclear fission R&D programmes and infrastructures, ii) defining R&D priorities to foster innovation and to enhance the long‑term contribution of nuclear fission in a low‑carbon future and iii) evaluating potential opportunities for co‑operation to implement some of these priorities. On 14‑15 January 2016, the NI2050 Advisory Panel Group met to discuss the objective, scope, methodology and process of the NI2050 roadmapping, and to finalise its Terms of Reference. The scope of the NI2050 roadmapping, displayed on the left, will be reflected in the organisation of the forthcoming expert meetings. The Terms of Reference were also endorsed by the NEA Nuclear Development Committee (NDC) during its meeting on 27‑28 January 2016.

Stakeholder Dialogue Webinar: Experience and Lessons for Young and Old Experts and ResearchersStakeholder Dialogue Webinar: Experience and Lessons for Young and Old Experts and Researchers
The NEA, with the support of the International Radiological Protection Association (IRPA), is hosting a series of webinars in February-March 2016 on stakeholder involvement and the use of social networks in developing interactions with stakeholders. The objective of this webinar series is to bring together young and experienced professionals in radiological protection to exchange information on addressing stakeholder concerns. Find out more about the webinar at oe.cd/1fK.

Fukushima waste management and decommissioning R&DFukushima waste management and decommissioning R&D
On 20-22 January 2016, the NEA Expert Group on Fukushima Waste Management and Decommissioning R&D (EGFWMD) held its final meeting with experts from Japan and five other countries with experience in waste management following an accident or contamination situation, including in decommissioning nuclear facilities and related remedial actions. The expert group has been working on a technical advisory report comparing the situation in Fukushima with accidents from the past, such as Chernobyl and Three Mile Island, and contamination situations as in Sellafield. The report is also to include recommendations on how to better prepare for contamination situations. The main goal of the January meeting was to discuss and finalise this report, which is planned to be issued in 2016.


2015

Nuclear Energy: Combating Climate ChangeNuclear Energy: Combating Climate Change
The international response to global climate change is a key policy concern of the 21st century. Governments around the world have reached a general consensus on the need to achieve large cuts in greenhouse gas emissions over the coming decades, to adapt to the impacts of climate change and to ensure the necessary financial and technical support for developing countries to take action. NEA Director‑General William D. Magwood, IV, and NEA experts explain the role of nuclear energy in combatting climate change within the 2°C (the "2DS") scenario. Watch the video here: youtu.be/weuSNBeZ3pY.

NEA takes part in COP21NEA takes part in COP21
The NEA officially launched its new brochure on Nuclear Energy: Combating Climate Change at the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21) of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). In co‑operation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) the NEA also held two side-events on "Why the Climate Needs Nuclear Energy" on 10‑11 December 2015. The purpose of the events was to highlight the role of nuclear power in helping to achieve the agreed target of limiting the rise in global mean temperatures to below 2°C above pre-industrial levels. The side-events benefitted not only from good co-operation among the NEA, the OECD and the IAEA, but also from a lively exchange with an interested and receptive audience. NEA representatives were present throughout the Conference at the OECD pavilion and the exhibition booth.

China's National Nuclear Emergency Response Technical Assistance Center visits the NEA to discuss nuclear emergency managementAdvancing nuclear emergency matters
The 40th meeting of the NEA Working Party on Nuclear Emergency Matters (WPNEM) was held on 8‑9 December 2015 with the participation of 39 representatives from 17 countries. This year exchanges mainly focused on the NEA International Nuclear Emergency Exercise (INEX‑5) on notification, communication and interfaces related to catastrophic events involving radiation or radiological materials. A key message from the NEA was to encourage participating countries to play a regional exercise with neighbouring or non-neighbouring countries in order to investigate further how countries can improve these aspects should they ever be required again. The INEX‑5 exercise represents an opportunity for participating countries to test and demonstrate the value of relevant changes put in place nationally, regionally or internationally ing the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident.

Nuclear Energy: Combating Climate Change coverThe NEA at COP21: "Why the Climate Needs Nuclear Energy"
The OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) look forward to welcoming you at the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP21) of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) during which they will be organising two side-events on "Why the Climate Needs Nuclear Energy". Visit the OECD Workspace in Blue Zone (Hall 3, Plot 7) on Thursday, 10 December, 13:15-14:45 and Friday, 11 December 2015, 11:15-12:45 to learn more about the contribution of nuclear energy to emissions abatement and sustainable development, and to pose your questions to the experts present. Find out more about the event.

NEA Regulators' Forum in Helsinki2015 NEA Regulators' Forum (RWMC/RF) workshop
On 8 and 9 September 2015, the NEA Regulators' Forum (RWMC/RF) conducted an international workshop on Challenges to the Regulators in Siting and Licensing the Construction and Operation of Radioactive Waste Repositories. The workshop was hosted by the Finnish Ministry of Employment and the Economy (MEE) and the Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) in Helsinki, Finland. It aimed to provide a forum to discuss and to exchange experience and approaches in preparing for license application reviews. Read more about the NEA Regulators' Forum (RWMC/RF).


Mr Masahiko FujiharaNew senior appointments

Mr Masahiko Fujihara has been appointed NEA Deputy Director‑General for Legal Affairs and Strategic Resources. He will work with the NEA Director‑General, overseeing the NEA Office of Legal Counsel and the Office of Administration in order to ensure the efficient implementation of the NEA's programme of work in the field of nuclear law and the sound management of NEA resources. Read more


Mr Ho NiehMr Ho Nieh has been appointed NEA Head of the Division of Nuclear Safety Regulation and Technology. He took up his duties on 31 August 2015. In line with the strategic orientations of the Secretary‑General in the area of nuclear energy, Mr Nieh will support the NEA Director‑General and principal official regarding activities associated with broad areas of nuclear safety regulatory policy, research and international co-operation. Mr Nieh will develop new approaches to enhanced horizontal co-operation within the NEA and with external bodies in order to promote effective nuclear safety around the world. Read more

Ms Yeonhee HahMs Yeonhee Hah has been appointed NEA Head of the Division of Human Aspects of Nuclear Safety (HANS). She took up her duties on 7 September 2015. In line with the strategic orientations of the Secretary-General in the area of nuclear energy, Ms Hah will support the NEA Director‑General and the senior official in charge of Agency work in areas associated with improving nuclear safety cultures in the context of national cultures; enhancing stakeholder and public engagement in nuclear regulatory, safety and nuclear waste contexts; and ensuring appropriate levels of training to ensure high levels of nuclear safety in NEA member countries. Read more

China's National Nuclear Emergency Response Technical Assistance Center visits the NEA to discuss nuclear emergency managementChina's National Nuclear Emergency Response Technical Assistance Center visits the NEA to discuss nuclear emergency management

On 1 September 2015, Mr Hu Jinwu, Director of the National Nuclear Emergency Response Technical Assistance Center of the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA), and 17 CAEA and other Chinese experts met with Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) Director‑General Mr William D. Magwood, IV, and senior staff to discuss international nuclear emergency management. Mr Magwood presented the Agency as well as its activities in -up to the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident. The meeting also provided information on the NEA International Nuclear Emergency Exercise INEX‑5, which has been designed to test national and regional emergency management aspects of notification, communications and interfaces between and among countries and international organisations during the intermediate phase of an accident involving a radiological release from a nuclear power plant deteriorated by a natural disaster. China has been invited to participate. Presentations were also given on other activities involving the NEA and China.

Joint Declaration on the Security of Supply of Medical Radioisotopes
Belgium has recently adhered to the Joint Declaration on the Security of Supply of Medical Radioisotopes, bringing the number of adhering countries to 14. The Joint Declaration, which seeks to ensure the security of supply of the most widely used medical radioisotope, molybdenum-99 (Mo-99), remains open to adhesion by any country that wishes to do so. Read the declaration and see the list of adhering countries: oe.cd/RW

Just Published: Projected Costs of Generating Electricity – 2015 Edition
This joint report by the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) and the International Energy Agency (IEA) is the eighth in a series of studies on electricity generating costs. The analysis of more than 180 plants, based on data from 22 countries, reveals several key trends, pointing, for example, to a significant decline in recent years in the cost of renewable generation. Find out more and download the executive summary.

Save the date – The international launch of Projected Costs of Generating Electricity – 2015 Edition – 31 August 2015
The Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) and the International Energy Agency (IEA) are hosting a free webinar on 31 August 2015 at 3:00 pm (CET) to disseminate the findings from the latest edition of the Projected Costs of Generating Electricity. Read more

NEA expert receives the "Landauer Memorial Lectureship" of the U.S. Health Physics Society
Dr Edward (Ted) Lazo, NEA's Senior Radiological Protection Scientist and Deputy Head of the Division of Radiological Protection and Radioactive Waste Management, and Scientific Secretary of the Committee on Radiation Protection and Public Health (CRPPH), has been honoured with the "Landauer Memorial Lectureship" of the U.S. Health Physics Society (HPS). The honour was awarded in recognition of Dr Lazo's distinguished contribution to the field of radiation health physics. The NEA congratulates Dr Lazo, who has been with the NEA for over twenty years, for this remarkable recognition of his past and ongoing excellent scientific work with and for the NEA committees.

NEA Workshop on Challenges and Enhancements to Safety Culture of the Regulatory Body – 3 June 2015
On Wednesday, 3 June 2015 at 9:00 am (CET), the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) hosted a workshop to discuss safety culture priorities, principles and implementation challenges for nuclear regulatory bodies, with the aim of helping to enhance their safety culture. The workshop featured opening remarks by NEA Director-General William D. Magwood, IV. The opening session provided an overview of the current status of safety culture, together with presentations and discussions on priorities and challenges. The main session then focused on principles and implementation of safety culture, as well as associated challenges and the enhancements being considered. Read more.

Image: Parliamentary Vice-Minister Mr Mamoru Fukuyama visits the NEA to discuss nuclear safety issues arising from the Fukushima Daiichi experienceParliamentary Vice-Minister Mr Mamoru Fukuyama visits the NEA to discuss nuclear safety issues arising from the Fukushima Daiichi experience
On 5 May 2015, Mr Mamoru Fukuyama, Parliamentary Vice-Minister of the Cabinet Office and of the Environment, Japan, and representatives from Japan's Cabinet Office met with Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) Director‑General Mr William D. Magwood, IV, and staff to discuss nuclear safety issues. Mr Magwood presented the Agency's activities in -up to the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident. NEA Acting Deputy Director‑General and Chief Nuclear Officer, Mr Kazuo Shimomura, provided further details on NEA activities in the emergency and recovery management areas, as well as on lessons learnt from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident, before participants exchanged views on international efforts to strengthen nuclear regulation, safety, research and radiological protection in the post-Fukushima context. In this respect, Mr Fukuyama announced that Japan will participate in the NEA's forthcoming International Nuclear Emergency Exercise (INEX-5), which the NEA welcomed. Mr Magwood further noted that the international nuclear community had a responsibility to the people of Fukushima to learn from the events of 11 March 2011 and to support Japan's efforts to clean up the Fukushima Daiichi site.

Steering Committee Policy Debate: Health Effects of Low-dose RadiationSteering Committee policy debate: Health effects of low-dose radiation
Health effects of low-dose radiation was the topic of the policy debate on 24 April 2015 at the 130th session of the NEA Steering Committee. Particularly since the Fukushima accident, there has been significant public and government interest concerning the radiological risks of low-dose radiation. To address this, the NEA invited some of the world's top experts to the Steering Committee meeting to present the state of the art in radiological epidemiology studies (statistical studies of exposed and non-exposed groups to compare health statuses, e.g. the number of cancer cases, and thus to gauge risk), and radiation biology studies (studies of cellular, tissue and organism effects of exposure to ionizing radiation). In addition, a presentation on the international framework for radiological protection, as recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection, described the framework in the context of its practical application. Finally, an industry representative provided an overview of the operational view of radiological protection issues. Discussions indicated that, while scientific uncertainty remains, there are small but statistically significant and biologically visible risks at doses of 50 to 100 mSv. The safety of workers and the public remains the first priority of industry and regulators, recognising that public concerns drive protection to be rather conservative in nature. Research continues in many venues to attempt to refine our understanding of the effect of low doses of ionizing radiation.

Stakeholder involvement in public communication by nuclear regulatory organisationsStakeholder involvement in public communication by nuclear regulatory organisations
On 1 April 2015, the NEA Committee on Nuclear Regulatory Activities (CNRA), in collaboration with the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC), held a second workshop on public communication by nuclear regulatory organisations (NROs). Some 45 participants from 11 countries attended the workshop in Rockville, Maryland (USA), which was held under the auspices of the NEA Working Group on Public Communication of Nuclear Regulatory Organisations (WGPC). Participants included a wide range of North American stakeholders, including the media, communication experts, government officials, NGOs and industry representatives. Opening remarks were provided by the NEA Director‑General William D. Magwood, IV, and Stephen G. Burns, Chair of the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).

GIF Framework Agreement extended for ten yearsGIF Framework Agreement extended for ten years
On 26 February 2015, the Framework Agreement for International Collaboration on Research and Development of Generation IV Nuclear Energy Systems was extended for ten years, paving the way for continued collaboration among participating countries in this important area of Gen IV R&D. A signing ceremony was held at the OECD in the presence of Mr Angel Gurría, OECD Secretary-General and Depositary of the Framework Agreement, and Mr William D. Magwood, IV, NEA Director-General. The Generation IV International Forum (GIF) is a co-operative international endeavour which was set up in 2005 to carry out the research and development needed to establish the feasibility and performance capabilities of the next generation of nuclear energy systems. For more information, see www.gen‑4.org.

Joint Declaration on the Security of Supply of Medical Radioisotopes
France has just adhered to the Joint Declaration on the Security of Supply of Medical Radioisotopes, bringing the number of adhering countries to 13. The Joint Declaration, which seeks to ensure the security of supply of the most widely used medical radioisotope, molybdenum‑99 (Mo‑99), remains open to adhesion by any country that wishes to do so. Read the declaration: oe.cd/RW

Joint Declaration on the Security of Supply of Medical Radioisotopes
South Africa has formally adhered to the Joint Declaration on the Security of Supply of Medical Radioisotopes, bringing the number of adhering countries to 12. The Joint Declaration, which seeks to ensure the security of supply of the most widely used medical radioisotope, molybdenum‑99 (Mo‑99), remains open to adhesion by any country that wishes to do so. Read the declaration: oe.cd/RW

Release of the IEA/NEA Technology Roadmap: Nuclear Energy – 29 January 2015Just published – 2015 Technology Roadmap: Nuclear Energy
Prepared jointly by the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) and the International Energy Agency (IEA), this Roadmap outlines the current status of nuclear technology development and the need for additional R&D to address increased safety requirements and improved economics. Read more

Save the date – Release of the IEA/NEA Technology Roadmap: Nuclear Energy – 29 January 2015
The Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) and the International Energy Agency (IEA) are hosting a free webinar on 29 January 2015 at 3:00 pm (CET) to disseminate the findings from the latest edition of the IEA/NEA Technology Roadmap: Nuclear Energy. Read more


2014

Joint Declaration on the Security of Supply of Medical Radioisotopes
Eleven countries have formally adhered to the Joint Declaration on the Security of Supply of Medical Radioisotopes which seeks to ensure the security of supply of the most widely used medical radioisotope, molybdenum-99 (99Mo). Additional countries may adhere going forward and are being encouraged to do so by the Council of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Press release

NEA Director-General opens the Northeast Asia Nuclear Safety Symposium (2nd TRM+) in Seoul, Korea NEA Director-General opens the Northeast Asia Nuclear Safety Symposium
On 26 November 2014, the NEA Director-General opened the Northeast Asia Nuclear Safety Symposium (2nd TRM+) in Seoul, Korea. During his presentation, he stressed the importance of the human dimension in nuclear safety and finding mechanisms to implement safety culture concepts effectively in different national contexts. He noted that the NEA is in a very good position to help facilitate further nuclear safety discussions in the region, and assured participants of the NEA's support for that interaction. In closing, he recalled that "All problems have solutions, and working together we can overcome any challenge."

Mr Richard Stratford and Mrs Marie-Elise HoedemakersNEA Steering Committee for Nuclear Energy elects next Chair
Mrs Marie‑Elise Hoedemakers, Senior Policy Advisor for International Nuclear Affairs at the Ministry of Economic Affairs of the Netherlands, has been elected as the next Chair of the NEA Steering Committee for Nuclear Energy, replacing Mr Richard Stratford of the US Department of State. Since 2011, she has been serving as a Vice‑Chair in the Steering Committee Bureau. Mrs Hoedemakers, who will become Chair on 1 January 2015, is the first woman to do so in the history of the Committee.

"I am very pleased with the Steering Committee decision and am looking forward to working with Mrs Hoedemakers," said NEA Director‑General Mr William D. Magwood, IV. "Her professional and personal qualities, combined with her extensive knowledge of NEA Steering Committee affairs, will be a great asset as we pursue future developments at the Agency."

Poland joins the NEA Data Bank
The NEA is pleased to announce that Poland has become the 25th country to join the NEA Data Bank, effective as of 24 October 2014. As Poland pursues the development of its nuclear power programme, access to the NEA Data Bank, an internationally recognised centre of reference for nuclear data tools and services, becomes increasingly important. NEA Director‑General Mr William D. Magwood, IV greatly welcomes Poland's membership, and notes that "this is another important step in Poland's efforts to build a robust infrastructure for the safe use of nuclear power in the future."

NEA Steering Committee Policy Debate speakersNEA Steering Committee policy debate on the Thorium fuel cycle
On 31 October 2014, the Steering Committee for Nuclear Energy held a policy debate on the thorium fuel cycle to discuss whether the introduction of a thorium fuel cycle could become a practical option, as well as the technical challenges associated with the various approaches to the use of thorium fuel. Speakers included Mr Kevin Hesketh of the UK National Nuclear Laboratory, Dr Richard Didsbury of Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL), Dr Frank Carré of the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) and Dr Victor Ignatiev of the Kurchatov Institute, Russian Federation. The NEA is in the final stages of publishing a report which will provide a clear, objective assessment of the thorium fuel cycle and its prospects.

Former NEA Director-General honoured with conferral of the Order of the Rising SunFormer NEA Director-General honoured with conferral of the Order of the Rising Sun
Mr. Luis E. Echávarri, former Director-General of the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), was conferred the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon, an imperial decoration of Japan at a ceremony hosted by H.E. Ambassador Kazuo Kodama in Paris on 6 October 2014. The honour was awarded in recognition of the significant contributions Mr. Echávarri has made through his work at the NEA, promoting nuclear safety in Japan and mutual understanding between Japan and the international community.

Radioactive waste management and "constructing memory" for future generations
The nearly 200 participants at the International Conference and Debate on the Preservation of Records, Knowledge and Memory of Radioactive Waste across Generations have agreed that future generations should be provided with knowledge and understanding of the environmental heritage they inherit from the past. The conference was held on 15‑17 September 2014 in Verdun, France by the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), with the support of the French National Agency for Radioactive Waste Management (ANDRA). It provided a forum for both specialists and stakeholders interested in records, knowledge and memory preservation in general, and radioactive waste management in particular, to exchange views and the latest information in the field. Press release [FR]

NEA's Stephen G. Burns nominated to US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Mr. Stephen G. Burns, NEA Head of Legal Affairs and former US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) General Counsel, has been nominated to become one of the five NRC Commissioners. The hearing before the full US Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works will take place on Tuesday, 9 September 2014 at 10:00 am EDT (GMT -4) in Washington D.C. Further details and the link to the live webcast are available here.

Mr. William D. Magwood, IVWilliam D. Magwood, IV: New Director-General of the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA)
The OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) is pleased to announce that as of today, 1 September 2014, Mr. William D. Magwood, IV has taken up his duties as the new NEA Director-General. Mr. Magwood brings to the NEA extensive experience in both the regulatory and developmental aspects of nuclear energy, including at the international level. Since 2010, he had been serving as one of the five Commissioners appointed by the US President and confirmed by the US Senate to the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). Press release [FR]

MOU Strengthens Co-operation between the OECD/NEA and the National Nuclear Safety Administration of China
A Memorandum of Understanding in the Field of Regulation of Nuclear and Radiation Safety has been signed by the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the National Nuclear Safety Administration (NNSA) of China, strengthening co-operation between both parties. Press release [FR]

Photo: OECD/NEA Director-General recognised by the Governments of Spain and Japan NEA Director-General recognised by the Governments of Spain and Japan
Mr. Luis E. Echávarri, Director-General of the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), has received official recognition from the Governments of Spain and Japan for his contributions to international service and co-operation in the field of nuclear energy. On 22 April 2014, the Government of Spain awarded him introduction into the Order of Isabella the Catholic. On 29 April 2014, the Government of Japan conferred the Order of the Rising Sun. Further details on the latter are available in the press releases issued by the Permanent Delegation of Japan to the OECD and the NEA.

These awards have been bestowed on the eve of Mr. Echávarri's retirement from the NEA on 30 April 2014. Mr. William Magwood has been appointed as the next Director-General of the NEA. Pending his arrival on 1 September 2014, Dr. Thierry Dujardin will be Acting NEA Director-General.

Enhancing Global Nuclear Safety conference image Enhancing global nuclear safety
Enhancing global nuclear safety was the focus of an international conference held on 8 April 2014 in Tokyo, Japan, by the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), in co-operation with the Nuclear Regulation Authority (NRA) of Japan. High‑level experts from nuclear regulatory authorities in France, Japan, Korea, Russia and the United States reviewed international developments in nuclear safety since the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident in March 2011, as the international community works to strengthen nuclear safety at the global level. Press release

William D. Magwood to succeed Luis E. Echávarri as next Director-General of the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA)
On 19 March 2014, the OECD Secretary-General announced the appointment of Mr. William D. Magwood as the next Director-General of the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA). He will be succeeding Luis E. Echávarri who is retiring at the end of April 2014 after nearly 17 years at the head of the NEA. Mr. Magwood – who is currently one of the five Commissioners of the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, was previously Director of Nuclear Energy at the US Department of Energy and has served as the Chair of the NEA Steering Committee – will take up his duties on 1 September 2014.

Photo: China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA) workshop, 26-27 February 2014NEA co-operation with China
On 26-27 February 2014, an OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) delegation led by the NEA Director-General, Luis E. Echávarri, met with several Chinese institutions to discuss co-operation in a number of areas, including nuclear safety and development. On 27 February, the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA) organised a co-operation workshop to explore practical implementation of the 2013 Joint Declaration on Co-operation with the OECD/NEA. The workshop was attended by 40 participants from the CAEA, the National Nuclear Safety Administration (NNSA), the National Energy Administration (NEA), the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), the China General Nuclear Power Corporation (CGN), the State Nuclear Power Technology Corporation (SNPTC) and other important actors in China's nuclear power programme.

Photo: Ambassador Nikolay Spasskiy, Deputy Director-General for International Co-operation of the Russian Federation's State Atomic Energy Corporation, ROSATOM and OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) Director-General Mr. Luis EchávarriROSATOM and OECD/NEA discuss co-operation
On 16 January 2014, Ambassador Nikolay Spasskiy, Deputy Director-General for International Co-operation of the Russian Federation's State Atomic Energy Corporation, ROSATOM, met with OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) Director-General Mr. Luis Echávarri and staff to discuss Russian participation since it joined the NEA one year ago and plans for further strengthening co-operation in the future.


2013

Photo: Ling Ao Nuclear Power PlantThe OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) and the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA) establish a Joint Declaration on Co-operation
The Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) of the Organisation for Economic Co‑operation and Development (OECD) and the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA) have signed a Joint Declaration on Co‑operation in the Field of Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy. The agreement foresees co‑operation in a number of fields, including nuclear safety, nuclear science, new reactor designs, radiological protection and radioactive waste management. It also provides for collaboration on nuclear energy technology development, economic analyses and the fuel cycle. Press Release [FR]

Photo (left to right): Mr. Henry Cordes, Dr. Adrian Simper, Mr. Luis Echávarri, Mr. Richard J. K. Stratford, Commissioner W. C. Ostendorff, Mr. Hironori NakanishiNEA Steering Committee policy debate on decommissioning
On 25 October 2013, the Steering Committee for Nuclear Energy held a policy debate on decommissioning, an issue of growing importance in NEA member countries. Speakers included Commissioner W. C. Ostendorff of the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), Dr. Adrian Simper, Director of Strategy and Technology at the UK Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), Mr. Henry Cordes, Chief Executive Officer of Germany's Energiewerke Nord GmbH (EWN) and Mr. Hironori Nakanishi, Director-General for Energy and Technological Policy at the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) of Japan.

Photo (left to right): Mr. Kazuo Shimomura, Mr. Tadamori Oshima, Mr. Echávarri, Mr. Eisuke Mori and Mr. Thierry DujardinMembers of the House of Representatives of Japan visit the NEA
On 2 October 2013, two members of the House of Representatives of Japan, Mr. Tadamori Oshima and Mr. Eisuke Mori, and representatives from Japan's Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) visited the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) for high-level discussions. NEA Director-General Luis Echávarri presented the Agency's activities, its role among international organisations and its work in -up to the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident. He shared his impressions pursuant to his visit to Fukushima Prefecture, and briefed Mssrs. Oshima and Mori on expected future trends in nuclear energy policy. NEA Deputy Director for Safety and Regulation, Mr. Kazuo Shimomura, provided further details on NEA activities on radiological protection and risk communication before participants exchanged views on nuclear energy internationally and in Japan.

Photo: Chair of the NEA Committee on Nuclear Regulatory Activities (CNRA) and Director-General of the French Nuclear Safety Authority (ASN) Dr. Jean-Christophe Niel and NEA Director-General Luis EchávarriNew Report on the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident: OECD/NEA response and lessons learnt
The OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) has just published a report on the actions taken by the NEA member countries and standing technical committees in response to the March 2011 accident at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. The report entitled The Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Accident: OECD/NEA Nuclear Safety Response and Lessons Learnt outlines international efforts to strengthen nuclear regulation, safety, research and radiological protection in the post-Fukushima context. It also highlights key messages and lessons learnt, notably as related to assurance of safety, shared responsibilities, human and organisational factors,
defence-in-depth, stakeholder engagement, crisis communication and emergency preparedness. Report | Press Release [FR]

High-level conference on the future of nuclear energyHigh-level conference on the future of nuclear energy
The International Ministerial Conference on Nuclear Power in the 21st Century was organised by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in co-operation with the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), and was hosted by the Government of the Russian Federation through Rosatom in St. Petersburg, Russia, on 27-29 June 2013. The event was attended by some 500 participants representing 89 countries and 7 international organisations. An opening statement by the OECD Secretary-General A. Gurría was delivered by NEA Director-General L. Echávarri, who also moderated one of the conference's four main sessions which focused on Drivers for Deployment of Sustainable and Innovative Technology. Conference participants specifically recognised the significant contribution of the OECD/NEA to safety and economic analyses of nuclear power. At the closing press conference, L. Echávarri stressed inter alia that nuclear safety and transparent communication are fundamental to the continued use of nuclear energy.
Read the ministerial conference press release or the closing statement.

Swedish Radiation Safety Authority joins the Multinational Design Evaluation Programme (MDEP) [FR]
The Swedish Radiation Safety Authority (SSM) is the latest nuclear regulatory body to join the Multinational Design Evaluation Programme (MDEP). It participated in its first MDEP meeting as a new member on the occasion of the 21-23 May 2013 meeting of the MDEP Steering Technical Committee which was held in Helsinki, Finland. Read more

Nuclear Safety Defence in DepthInternational workshop on challenges and enhancements to nuclear safety defence in depth
An international Workshop on Challenges and Enhancements to Defence in Depth in Light of the Fukushima Daiichi Accident was jointly organised by the NEA Committee on Nuclear Regulatory Activities (CNRA) and the NEA Committee on the Safety on Nuclear Installations (CSNI), with input from the NEA Committee on Radiation Protection and Public Health (CRPPH), on 5 June 2013 in Paris. About 100 participants from NEA member countries, India, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) and Eurelectric held in-depth discussions on the defence-in-depth concept and its implementation in the post-Fukushima context. They also considered additional steps to be taken at the national and international levels to address the challenges identified and to make further enhancements to nuclear safety, along with future NEA activities in support of these processes.

Generation IV International Forum (GIF) advances on safety design criteria
The Generation IV International Forum (GIF) governing body held its semi-annual meeting on 16-17 May 2013 in Beijing, China. Foremost among the significant outcomes, the GIF Policy Group reviewed and approved Phase I Safety Design Criteria that delineate the safety goals for Generation IV sodium-cooled fast reactors. It also decided on the commencement of Phase II of this effort for developing specific implementation guidelines with quantitative criteria. Of broader interest, the PG reached consensus on a strategic plan that has been under development for a year. It includes an updated technology roadmap and addresses improving internal collaboration and external engagement. Finally, member countries confirmed the PG's leadership changes. Current leadership includes Chairman John Kelly (United States), Technical Director Dohee Hahn (Republic of Korea), PG Vice Chairs Kazumi Aoto (Japan) and Christophe Behar (France), and Policy Director Pascal Anzieu (France). See the GIF website for updates, publications and information about the GIF's organisation.

Russia participates for first time in the Steering Committee for Nuclear Energy
On 25-26 April 2013, Russia sent its first delegation to the meeting of the Steering Committee for Nuclear Energy, the highest decision-making body at the NEA in which all 31 member countries are represented. Meeting highlights included the approval of the text of a joint declaration on co-operation with the China Atomic Energy Authority, the adoption of a statement on the security of supply of medical radioisotopes and a policy debate on NEA actions in response to the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident. Read more

New Chair takes over at the Multinational Design Evaluation Programme [FR]
The Multinational Design Evaluation Programme (MDEP) has appointed Dr Allison M. Macfarlane of the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) as its new Chair. Dr. Macfarlane replaces André-Claude Lacoste, former Chair of the French Nuclear Safety Authority (Autorité de sûreté nucléaire, ASN). Read more

NEA activities in response to the Fukushima Daiichi accident
Immediately ing the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident in March 2011, the NEA offered its direct assistance to the Japanese authorities, notably in the development and implementation of national safety reviews and stress tests, best practices in the remediation of land contaminated with radioactive materials, planning and effective management of decontamination activities, long-term planning for the decommissioning of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, and main elements to achieve effective regulatory reform. Read more

Russia becomes an NEA member
On 1 January 2013, Russia became the latest member of the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA). Read about the accession


2012

NEA Director-General addresses Fukushima Ministerial Conference on Nuclear Safety
On 15 December 2012, NEA Director-General Luis Echávarri delivered an NEA Statement on the opening day of the Fukushima Ministerial Conference on Nuclear Safety being held in Fukushima Prefecture in Japan. The statement highlights NEA -up actions and international projects underway in response to TEPCO's Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident. Read more

Low-carbon systems of the future must take system costs into account [FR]
A new study just released by the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) recommends that decision-makers should take full electricity system costs into account in energy choices and that such costs should be internalised according to a "generator pays" principle. Read more

Photo of speakers (left to right): Dr. C.S. Kang, Chairman of the Nuclear Safety and Security Commission (Republic of Korea), Dr. M. Weightman, HM Chief Inspector, Nuclear Installations Inspectorate (United Kingdom), Commissioner W.D. Magwood IV, Nuclear Regulatory Commission (United States) and Mr. L. Stricker, Chairman of the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO)Nuclear safety defence-in-depth
In addition to approving the NEA Programme of Work for 2013-2014, at its 18-19 October meeting the NEA Steering Committee for Nuclear Energy held a policy debate on Nuclear Safety Defence-in-Depth. Speakers included Dr. C.S. Kang, Chairman of the Nuclear Safety and Security Commission (Republic of Korea), Dr. M. Weightman, HM Chief Inspector, Nuclear Installations Inspectorate (United Kingdom), Commissioner W.D. Magwood IV, Nuclear Regulatory Commission (United States) and Mr. L. Stricker, Chairman of the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO). Participants in the debate recognised that the concept of defence-in-depth is valid, but that issues have been raised post-Fukushima regarding its implementation which needs to be further reviewed and improved. They stressed that responsibility for safety lies with the operator, but that the regulator has an important role to play in ensuring that the barriers in place to protect the public and the environment remain effective. The fundamental importance of a robust safety culture was also highlighted.

UAE nuclear regulator joins the Multinational Design Evaluation Programme (MDEP) [FR]
On 24-26 September 2012, the Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is participating in its first MDEP meeting as a new associate member, on the occasion of the MDEP Steering Technical Committee meeting which is being held in Beijing, China. Read more

Belgian safety strategy for radioactive waste surface disposal facility found to be "credible and robust" [FR]
The OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) has just presented to the Belgian authorities the outcome of an international peer review on "Key aspects of the safety case for a radioactive waste surface disposal facility in Belgium". The review examines the credibility and robustness of the long-term safety strategy and the long-term safety assessment documented in the draft safety case being prepared by the national radioactive waste management agency, ONDRAF/NIRAS. The draft safety case is being prepared for a license application for the construction and operation of a surface disposal facility for short-lived, low- and intermediate-level radioactive waste in the municipality of Dessel. Read more

NEA Director-General high-level visit to Korea
From 30 August to 3 September, NEA Director-General Luis E. Echávarri was in the Republic of Korea for a series of high-level visits. On 30 August, he participated in the opening of the Nuclear Science and Technology Festival with the Korean Prime Minister, Hwang-Sik Kim. He thanked the Prime Minister for Korea's active participation in the NEA, highlighting the country's achievements in nuclear science and research, and commending the government for having established the new independent regulatory authority. In subsequent discussions, he recalled the importance of having a technically competent, independent nuclear regulatory body that provides factual information in a timely and transparent manner to all interested parties, including the public. On 31 August, Mr. Echávarri provided the opening speech at the Nuclear Science and Technology Forum and gave a lecture to around 100 of Korea's top undergraduates in nuclear studies. Meetings were held with the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI), the Korea Institute of Nuclear Safety (KINS), the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MEST) and the Nuclear Safety and Security Commission (NSSC).

New report shows global uranium supply ensured for long term [FR]
Uranium resources and production are on the rise with the security of uranium supply ensured for the long term, according to a new report by the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).Uranium 2011: Resources, Production and Demand, commonly referred to as the "Red Book", shows that total identified uranium resources have grown 12.5% since 2008. However, the costs of production have also increased, leading to reductions in lower cost category resources. These figures, which reflect the situation as of 1 January 2011, mean that total identified resources are sufficient for over 100 years of supply based on current requirements.

Just released: International peer review results on a radioactive waste repository in Sweden [FR]
The OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) has just presented to the Swedish authorities the outcome of an international peer review on "The Post-closure Radiological Safety Case for a Spent Fuel Repository in Sweden". The review examines the post-closure radiological safety analysis report (SR-Site) produced by the Swedish Nuclear Fuel and Waste Management Company (SKB) in support of the application for a general licence to construct and operate a spent nuclear fuel geological repository in the municipality of Östhammar. If granted, this will be the first general licence worldwide for a spent fuel repository. Read more

Russia to join the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency [FR]
On 23 May 2012, an official exchange of letters took place between OECD Secretary-General Angel Gurría, First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Russia Andrey Denisov and Deputy Director-General of Rosatom Nikolay Spasskiy to formalise the accession of Russia to the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) and its Data Bank effective as from 1st January 2013. Russia will then become the 31st member country of the NEA. Read more

Top nuclear safety regulators enhance crisis communication following Fukushima [FR]
On 9-10 May 2012, senior officials from nuclear regulatory organisations and key stakeholders from 25 countries and 7 international organisations met during a two-day International Workshop on Crisis Communication: Facing the Challenges to share best practices and to improve crisis communication. The workshop was organised by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) and hosted by the Consejo de Seguridad Nuclear (CSN) in Madrid, Spain. Read more

Webcast: Crisis communication challenges ing the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident
Watch live coverage of the OECD/NEA International Workshop on Crisis Communication: Facing the Challenges hosted by the Spanish Consejo de Seguridad Nuclear (CSN) in Madrid, Spain. During the workshop, senior nuclear regulatory officials and key stakeholders from 25 countries and 7 international organisations will share best practices and identify emerging issues in crisis communication following the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident. Webcast | Workshop information and programme

Indian nuclear regulatory body (AERB) joins the Multinational Design Evaluation Programme (MDEP) [FR]
On 4 April 2012, India's Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) became the first new member in the MDEP since its inception in 2006. Read more

NEA co-organises Fukushima decommissioning workshop and site visit
On 12-14 March 2012 the Japanese government and the Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) held an International Experts' Workshop and International Symposium on the Decommissioning of TEPCO's Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant Units 1-4 in Tokyo, Japan. This event was co-organised with the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (OECD/NEA) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The event provided a forum for discussion and exchange of information among technical experts from Japanese utilities, research and design organisations, regulatory bodies, manufacturing and service companies, as well as other international experts on decommissioning, radioactive waste management and robotics.  Attendees visited the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant following the symposium. Plant manager Takeshi Takahashi received the delegates who then toured the earthquake-resistant building that serves as command post for all operations, various waste sites, the damaged power units and the newly reinforced anti-tsunami seawall. Read more about the OECD/NEA's work following the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident here.

NEA Director-General Luis E. Echávarri on the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident: One year later
"...As we reflect upon the first anniversary of these tragedies, our condolences go out to the Japanese people affected by these events. We also continue to pledge our support to the authorities who are working towards the remediation of the situation, both in terms of improving nuclear safety and the regulatory infrastructure as well as land decontamination and recovery." Read more

Dialogue with civil society in affected areas of Japan
With the co-operation of the NEA, the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) organised a dialogue with residents of Data City, Japan on 25-26 February. This meeting was the second in a series of ICRP seminars that foster discussions among affected stakeholders in order to help identify priorities and to initiate rehabilitation programmes in follow-up to the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident. The agenda focused on past accomplishments, current challenges and future initiatives to improve the radiological situation and living conditions for local inhabitants. About 50 representatives of civil society as well as central, prefectoral and local governments attended along with 50 residents of Fukushima prefecture. Data City is a community that has been significantly affected by contamination from the Fukushima accident. During the meeting, ways to help improve the situation were identified, including common agreements on radiological criteria (e.g. food contamination levels), waste management approaches and criteria for successful remediation.

International meetings on remediation and restoration of environments
On 3-4 February 2012, the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) co-organised two days of international meetings on The Experience and Technology of Russia, Ukraine and Other CIS Countries on Remediation and Restoration of Environments. Hosted by the Japanese government and organised by the International Science and Technology Center (ISTC) and the Science and Technology Center in Ukraine (STCU), the meetings provided opportunities for experts from zones most affected by the Chernobyl accident to share best practices in managing contaminated land. Read the presentations here.

NEA meets with Japanese officials to discuss nuclear safety regulatory organisations
On 17-18 January 2012, an NEA team of international experts met in Tokyo with members of the Japanese Advisory Committee for Prevention of Nuclear Accidents and the special Japanese Task Force for the Reform of Nuclear Safety Regulations and Organisations to foster increased understanding of various national regulatory organisations and approaches to regulatory oversight of nuclear power facilities. Experts from Japan, France, Korea, the United Kingdom, the United States, the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) participated in an experts' meeting on concepts and characteristics important to regulatory organisations and an international public workshop on nuclear safety regulation. Participants discussed different approaches to reforming areas recommended by the Advisory Committee, such as those concerning independence, regulatory oversight, crisis management, human resources and development, new safety regulations, transparency and international aspects for regulatory organisations.

Stephen G. Burns appointed Head of Legal Affairs at the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency
Paris, 11 January 2012 - The OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) is pleased to announce that Mr. Stephen G. Burns has been appointed Head of Legal Affairs. Mr. Burns will provide legal opinions and secretariat services to the Nuclear Law Committee, advise NEA management on all legal aspects of the Agency's operations, assist member countries in the establishment of international joint projects and contribute to the Agency's nuclear law information and education programmes. He will also provide legal assistance to the Contracting Parties to the Paris Convention on Third Party Liability in the field of nuclear energy and the Brussels Convention Supplementary to the Paris Convention. Read more


2011

Webcast: NEA organises peer review of Swedish spent fuel repository
At the request of the Swedish Radiation Safety Authority (SSM), the NEA organised a panel of international experts to perform an independent peer review of the Swedish Nuclear Fuel and Waste Management Company (SKB)'s reporting of post-closure safety in the license application for the spent nuclear fuel repository to be constructed in Forsmark. The NEA peer review supports the independent review by the Swedish decision makers by providing an international reference regarding the maturity of SKB's spent fuel disposal program vis-à-vis the best practices in the area of long-term nuclear safety and radiation protection. Public hearings were held on 12, 13 and 15 December in which the NEA panel posed questions to SKB representatives. On 16 December, the NEA expert panel presented its preliminary conclusions on the peer review. Watch the webcast of the hearings and preliminary conclusions.

The NEA meets with Japanese nuclear safety authorities to discuss stress tests
On 16-18 November 2011, an NEA team of international experts met in Tokyo with the Japanese Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency (NISA) and the Japan Nuclear Energy Safety Organisation (JNES) to foster a better understanding by NISA and JNES of other NEA member countries' post-Fukushima national safety reviews (or "stress tests"), international guidance and review methodologies. The mission included a technical experts' meeting for sharing information on national reviews, an international seminar on stress tests with the Japanese nuclear industry and public, and a meeting with an advisory committee supporting the regulatory reviews of licensee analyses as part of the Japanese stress tests. Experts from Japan, France, Finland, Korea, the United Kingdom, the United States and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) participated in these meetings. Presentations are available on the NEA Fukushima information exchange page. This programme was part of the NEA's ongoing commitment to support Japan following the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident (see also the International Symposium on Decontamination: Towards the Recovery of the Environment).

Latest developments at the NEA
Several important issues were deliberated at the 123rd session of the Steering Committee for Nuclear Energy on 27-28 October. The Committee approved funding to support Fukushima-related activities and discussed various aspects of the accident and its implications for NEA work in a policy debate. It also addressed the official request received from the Russian Federation on 24 October to join the NEA. It agreed to send a fact-finding mission to the Russian Federation to inform its decision on membership, which it expects to take at its next meeting in April 2012. If the Russian Federation is granted membership, it will be the second such country (after the Republic of Korea in 1993) to accede to the NEA prior to joining the OECD. Among other highlights from the meeting, the Committee approved NEA co-sponsorship of the new "Radiation Protection and Safety of Radiation Sources: International Basic Safety Standards", as adopted by the IAEA Board of Governors in September 2011 following several years of work on their revision.

International symposium on decontamination held in Fukushima, Japan
On 16 October 2011, the Government of Japan, in co-operation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), the Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) and the Japan Nuclear Energy Safety Organisation (JNES), held an International Symposium on Decontamination – Towards the Recovery of the Environment, in Fukushima, Japan. Read more

Generation IV International Forum reaffirms commitment to improving the safety of new reactors
On 6-7 October 2011, the Policy Group of the Generation IV International Forum (GIF), for which the NEA serves as Technical Secretariat, met in Lucerne, Switzerland. Following on from the Fukushima Daiichi accident, the GIF stated that it is essential for the next generation of nuclear power plants, anticipated for commercial deployment post-2030, to be designed with the best available safety knowledge that reflects worldwide operational experience and society's expectations. Read more…

Top nuclear regulators meet to discuss safety of new reactors [FR]
16 September 2011 - Over 120 nuclear regulatory and industry experts met in Paris on 15-16 September to discuss the accomplishments of the Multinational Design Evaluation Programme (MDEP) and the future of global nuclear safety. The conference comes at a challenging time following the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident.

Accident at Centraco near Marcoule, France [FR]
12 September 2011 – An accident occurred at the Centre for treatment and conditioning of low-level radioactive waste (Centraco) located in Codolet near Marcoule, France, involving the explosion of a furnace. As a consequence, one person died and four were injured, one of them seriously (see ASN Press release No. 1: Information on the accident in Centraco (Gard) [FR] for further details). The event did not involve any radiological issues and no protective actions were required for the population. Emergency measures were undertaken by the ASN and the operator. The situation is now under control and follow-up inspections will be conducted (see Press Release No. 2: End of the event in Centraco (Gard) [FR]).  

New policy recommendations on the security of supply of medical radioisotopes
23 June 2011 – The NEA High-level Group on the Security of Supply of Medical Radioisotopes (HLG-MR) has just released its final report and policy approach to address barriers to the long-term secure supply of medical radioisotopes as well as a study on future medical radioisotope demand. The NEA will continue its work in the field with a focus on policy implementation.

Nuclear regulatory authorities decide on follow-up to the Fukushima Daiichi accident [FR]
8 June 2011 – The nuclear regulatory authorities of the G8, OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) member countries and associated countries participated in the Forum on the Fukushima Accident: Insights and Approaches to discuss insights gained in relation to the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident and to decide on appropriate follow-up actions at the international level.

New avenues for improving international nuclear safety [FR]
7 June 2011 – Co-organised by the French Presidency of the G8 and the NEA, and with 37 countries invited at the ministerial level, the International Ministerial Meeting on Nuclear Safety following the Fukushima Accident enabled important discussions on how to reinforce international co-operation and international legal frameworks on nuclear safety. More information is available at the French Ministry for Ecology, Sustainable Development, Transport and Housing [FR].

Slovenia joins the NEA [FR]
12 May 2011 – The Republic of Slovenia has became the 30th member country of the NEA

Medical radioisotopes: governments and industry must change practices to ensure security of supply [FR]
2 May 2011 – The OECD/NEA Steering Committee for Nuclear Energy calls on governments and industry to work together to implement fundamental changes in the molybdenum-99 supply chain to ensure long-term reliability of supply.

25 years after the Chernobyl accident
22 April 2011 – An INES level 7 accident occurred at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in the former Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic on 26 April 1986.

Message from the OECD/NEA Director-General on the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear accident
16 March 2011 – "On behalf of the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (OECD/NEA), I wish to express my condolences to the Japanese people who are being affected by one of the worst natural disasters of the century."

OECD/NEA Director-General speaks during a public hearing at the French Parliament
16 March 2011 – At a hearing organised by France's Office for Scientific and Technological Choices, OECD/NEA Director-General Luis Echávarri declared that the NEA had offered its complete assistance to the Japanese government in its areas of expertise.
Watch the video

Earthquake and tsunami in Japan: the status of nuclear reactors and radioactive releases
11 March 2011 – A major earthquake of magnitude 9.0 has struck north-eastern Japan. For the latest information concerning the status of nuclear reactors and radioactive releases, see the following page.

The NEA launches International Nuclear Law Essentials
28 February 2011 – International Nuclear Law Essentials (INLE). The INLE is a one-week comprehensive, high-quality course in international nuclear law that is geared towards professionals with a busy schedule. The first session of the INLE will take place on 3-7 October 2011.

NEA mission to Canada
23-24 February 2011 – NEA Director-General Luis Echávarri met with officials in Ottawa, Canada to discuss recent developments in nuclear energy from both the Canadian and international perspectives.


2010

Nuclear energy's role in the security of energy supply [FR]
According to a study just published by the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) on The Security of Energy Supply and the Contribution of Nuclear Energy, together with improvements in energy efficiency, nuclear energy has contributed significantly over the past 40 years to energy diversification and enhanced energy supply security in many OECD countries.

Poland joins the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency [FR]
Poland has become the 29th member country of the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency.

The International Nuclear and Radiological Event Scale (INES): 20 years of nuclear communication [FR]
On 14 October, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) are celebrating the 20th anniversary of the International Nuclear and Radiological Event Scale (INES). Developed in the aftermath of the Chernobyl accident, INES helps nuclear and radiation safety authorities and the nuclear industry worldwide rate nuclear and radiological events and communicate their safety significance to the general public, the media and the technical community.

The economic structure of the medical isotope supply chain: the underlying explanation for the shortage [FR]
The current economics of the supply chain of the most widely used medical radioisotope are not adequate for supporting new investment. This is the central finding of The Supply of Medical Radioisotopes: An Economic Study of the Molybdenum-99 Supply Chain, published today by the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA).

10th anniversary of the Forum on Stakeholder Confidence (FSC) [FR]
On 15 September, the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) celebrated the 10th anniversary of the Forum on Stakeholder Confidence (FSC). A one-day open colloquium in Paris was organised to take stock of FSC achievements, conduct a multi-stakeholder discussion of important governance themes in radioactive waste management, and gather guidance on new directions to be taken by the FSC in the coming years.

10th anniversary of the International School of Nuclear Law (ISNL) [FR]
On 23 August, the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) and the University of Montpellier 1 in France proudly celebrated the 10th anniversary of the International School of Nuclear Law (ISNL).

Latest data shows long-term security of uranium supply [FR]
According to Uranium 2009: Resources, Production and Demand just published by the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), uranium resources, production and demand are all on the rise. Exploration efforts have increased recently in line with the expected expansion of nuclear energy in the coming years. Total identified resources have grown but so too have costs of production.

Chair of the NEA Steering Committee for Nuclear Energy receives Henry DeWolf Smyth Nuclear Statesman Award
Richard J.K. Stratford, Director of the Office of Nuclear Energy, Safety and Security, Bureau of International Security and Non-proliferation, U.S. Department of State and Chair of the NEA Steering Committee for Nuclear Energy, was honoured with the Henry DeWolf Smyth Nuclear Statesman Award. The Smyth Award is the highest recognition given jointly by the American Nuclear Society and the Nuclear Energy Institute.

NEA Director-General receives the 2010 EURELECTRIC award [FR]
Luis E. Echávarri was chosen as this year's recipient of the EURELECTRIC award which distinguishes outstanding contributions in the electricity sector. This is a personal recognition of Mr. Echávarri in relation to his role as OECD/NEA Director-General and his career during which he has highlighted the contribution of nuclear power to security of energy supply at competitive costs and the development of a low-carbon economy.

Expansion of nuclear energy is a key contributor to combating climate change [FR]
Almost one quarter of global electricity could be generated from nuclear power by 2050, making a major contribution to cutting greenhouse gas emissions. This is the central finding of the Nuclear Energy Technology Roadmap, published today by the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA).

Projected Costs of Generating Electricity – 2010 Edition
The cost of electricity in the coming years will depend on a number of key parameters, foremost among them the costs of raising financial capital and the price of carbon. This is one of the main conclusions of Projected Costs of Generating Electricity – 2010 Edition, a new joint study by the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA).


2009

Securing vital supplies of medical radioisotopes [FR]
The Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) High-level Group on the Security of Supply of Medical Radioisotopes (HLG-MR), chaired by Serge Dupont, Deputy Minister in the Government of Canada, has just concluded its second meeting in Paris, France.

Nuclear energy and addressing climate change [FR]
The need to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in an effort to tackle climate change has become a major driver of energy policy. Indeed, many believe that an "energy revolution" is needed to decarbonise energy supply, which is heavily reliant on fossil fuels.

Top regulators take important steps to enhance the safety of new nuclear reactor designs [FR]
Top nuclear regulators have met at the OECD, in Paris, with vendors, operators and standards organisations, taking important steps to enhance global nuclear safety.

Nuclear electricity generation remains stable despite the economic crisis [IT] [FR]
According to official data released today by the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), nuclear electricity generation in OECD member countries has only marginally declined despite the economic downturn. Nuclear power plants provided 21.5% of the total electricity generated in the OECD area in 2008 against 21.6% in 2007.

Nuclear energy in the 21st century: safe, clean and affordable [FR]
At the International Ministerial Conference on Nuclear Energy in the 21st Century, which opened today in Beijing, China, OECD Secretary-General Angel Gurría highlighted that "Clean and affordable energy, including access to safe and secure nuclear power, should be a central element of our efforts... not only for a sustainable economy, but also for the future of our planet."

Keynote speech by Angel Gurría, OECD Secretary-General, at the international ministerial conference on Nuclear Energy in the 21st Century

Security of supply of medical radioisotopes
At a workshop organised by the NEA on 29-30 January 2009, participants recognised the vulnerability of the global medical isotope supply chain and identified measures to enhance short-term supply security.


2008

NEA at Fifty [FR]
An international array of some 250 dignitaries and government experts in the field of nuclear energy gathered in Paris on 16 October 2008 to mark the 50th anniversary of the creation of the NEA and to discuss the future use of nuclear power for peaceful purposes.

Nuclear Energy Outlook [FR]
With the launch today of its first Nuclear Energy Outlook, the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) makes an important contribution to ongoing discussions of nuclear energy's potential role in the energy mixes of its member countries.

Energy, environment, climate change: Unlocking the potential for innovation
Keynote speech by Angel Gurría, OECD Secretary-General, during the World Energy Council: Energy Leaders Summit, London, UK, 16 September 2008

New nuclear energy data released [FR]
According to the latest official figures released today by the NEA, nuclear power plants provided 21.6% of the electricity generated in OECD countries, as compared to 22.9% in 2006. This was despite record production at nuclear power plants in Finland, Hungary and the United States, which did not offset reduced output in France, Germany and Japan and plant closures in the Slovak Republic and the United Kingdom. Total nuclear electricity production was 2 172 TWh in 2007, about 3.6% less than the previous year.

NEA nuclear safety project celebrates 50 years of operation [FR]
The OECD/NEA Halden Reactor Project is celebrating 50 years of continuous operation today with a ceremony in Oslo, Norway. Under the auspices of the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), the research being done in the project helps improve the safety of nuclear power plants. It is the Agency's longest-running and largest joint project with an annual budget of EUR 15 million.

Uranium resources sufficient to meet projected nuclear energy requirements long into the future [FR]
There is enough uranium known to exist to fuel the world's fleet of nuclear reactors at current consumption rates for at least a century, according to the latest edition of the world reference on uranium published today.

Nuclear safety initiative enters new phase [FR]
Heads of the nuclear regulatory agencies of ten countries met this week at the NEA to discuss progress in an important international initiative, the Multinational Design Evaluation Programme (MDEP). During the meeting chaired by Mr. André-Claude Lacoste, Chairman of the French Nuclear Safety Authority, the regulators agreed to enter a new phase of co-operation and launch a programme of work, including design-specific and issue-specific activities, where results are expected in the short term.


2007

OECD/NEA countries adopt a statement about qualified human resources in the nuclear field [FR]
Representatives from OECD/NEA member countries have unanimously adopted a statement on the need for qualified human resources in the nuclear field. The adoption of this statement reflects their concerns about the difficulties nuclear institutions in many OECD/NEA member countries are experiencing in recruiting qualified specialists.

Janice Dunn Lee appointed new Deputy Director-General of the NEA[FR]
The OECD Secretary-General, Mr. Angel Gurría, is pleased to announce the appointment of Janice Dunn Lee as Deputy Director-General of the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA). Ms. Dunn Lee takes up her duties at the NEA on 23 July 2007.

New NEA study explores the risks and benefits of nuclear energy [FR]
With the publication today of Risks and Benefits of Nuclear Energy, the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) provides a useful new aid for decision makers. The study brings together authoritative information and illustrative data on how the risks and benefits of nuclear energy might be assessed in the light of sustainable development goals.

Nuclear energy data released [FR]
According to the latest official figures released today by the NEA, total electricity generation in OECD countries rose to just over 9 867 TWh in 2006, about 0.5% above 2005. Nuclear power plants provided 23.1% of this electricity, as compared to 22.8% in 2005. Nuclear electricity generation in the OECD area provided 2 278 TWh in 2006, about 1.8% more than the previous year.

The NEA and Russia sign a Joint Declaration on Co-operation [FR]
A joint declaration on co-operation was signed today in Moscow during a ceremony attended by officials from the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) and Russian agencies involved in its implementation. Konstantin Pulikovsky, Chairman of the Federal Environmental, Industrial and Nuclear Supervision Service (Rostechnadzor), signed on behalf of the Russia and Director-General Luis Echávarri signed on behalf of the NEA.


2006

NEA provides support for new stage of nuclear safety initiative [FR]
The OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) is supporting a new stage of an important international initiative, the Multinational Design Evaluation Programme (MDEP). The MDEP was set up to share the resources and knowledge accumulated by national nuclear regulatory authorities during their assessment of new reactor designs, with the aim of improving both the efficiency and the effectiveness of the process.

Uranium supply adequate to meet demand [FR]
The most complete record of the uranium industry to be published to date concludes that uranium supply will remain adequate to meet demand. Forty Years of Uranium Resources, Production and Demand in Perspective, published today by the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), draws on the twenty editions of Uranium Resources Production and Demand (also known as the "Red Book") released since 1965.

Nuclear energy data just released [FR]
According to the latest official figures released today by the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), total electricity generation in OECD countries rose to almost 9 620 TWh in 2005, about 1.9% above 2004. Nuclear power plants provided 23.2% of this electricity, as compared to 23.9% in 2004. At the start of 2006, there were 352 nuclear units in operation in 17 OECD countries.

Uranium resources: plenty to sustain growth of nuclear power [FR]
Global uranium resources are more than adequate to meet projected requirements, says the latest edition of the recognised world reference on uranium published today.

New studies mark twenty years since the Chernobyl accident [FR]
The OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) is marking twenty years since the Chernobyl accident with two new publications: Stakeholders and Radiological Protection: Lessons from Chernobyl Twenty Years After demonstrates the importance of local involvement in addressing the needs of affected populations to reduce their radiation dose. International Nuclear Law in the Post-Chernobyl Period, jointly published with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), is a compendium of articles on international nuclear law initiatives since Chernobyl.


2005

Nuclear energy data just released [FR]
The latest official figures released by the NEA today reveal that, at the start of 2005, there were 352 nuclear units in operation in 17 OECD member countries, seven less than the year before. However, despite this reduction, nuclear generating capacity in the OECD increased by almost 1% and nuclear-generated electricity increased by over 4% over the previous year.

Figures on the costs of generating electricity released today [FR]
A new study of the costs of generating electricity was published today by the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) and the International Energy Agency (IEA). Previous editions of Projected Costs of Generating Electricity have served as the reference in this field for energy policy makers, electricity system analysts and energy economists. The study is particularly timely in the light of current discussions of energy policy in many countries.

International ministerial conference on nuclear power for the 21st Century [FR]
Ministers from 29 countries have confirmed they will attend a two day conference in Paris on 21-22 March called "Nuclear Power for the 21st Century", organised by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and hosted by the Government of France in cooperation with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA).


2004

The economic case for nuclear energy is compelling [FR]
During a panel debate today in Brussels, Belgium, Luis Echávarri, Director-General of the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) said that "the competitiveness of nuclear energy continues to improve. If the decision to include nuclear in the energy mix is made on economic grounds alone, then the case for nuclear energy can be compelling." Mr. Echávarri's comments came during the panel debate "Nuclear: A persuasive economic option", organised as part of the European Nuclear Assembly.

Debate on nuclear energy sparks significant interest [FR]
During a session of the World Energy Congress that he chaired earlier today, Luis  Echávarri, Director-General of the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), stated that "this debate on nuclear energy could not be timelier. The coming years will be crucial in determining what contribution nuclear energy will make to the world energy supply and to sustainable development. Experience shows that as a large-scale, nearly carbon-free energy source, it is one of the cheapest ways to reduce GHG emissions."

Data and projections on uranium just released [FR]
In the just-published Uranium 2003: Resources, Production and Demand (also known as the "Red Book"), the world uranium resource base is found to be adequate to meet future projected requirements. Questions remain however, as to whether new production capacity can be developed within the time frame required to meet future uranium demand.

2003 nuclear energy data just released [FR]
The latest official figures released today by the NEA reveal that nuclear electricity generation in OECD member countries decreased by nearly 2% in 2003 in comparison with 2002. Prolonged inspections and maintenance outages in Japan and the United States were the main reasons for the fall in overall nuclear electricity production. Despite this decrease, nuclear power plants still provided some 23 % of total electricity generated in OECD member countries in 2003.

Expert review gives high marks to a Swiss safety study on a radioactive waste disposal concept [FR]
The NEA has just released a report entitled Safety of Disposal of Spent Fuel, High-level Waste and Long-lived Intermediate Level Waste in Switzerland. This document brings together the results of an international, independent peer review that examined the post-closure radiological safety assessment for disposal in the Opalinus Clay of the Zürcher Weinland. (27 April 2004)

New report reviews the role of government in the field of nuclear energy [FR]
The NEA just released a report that addresses the roles and responsibilities of government in the field of nuclear energy. It provides data and analyses on how these have evolved and identifies future challenges for governments, particularly with respect to the development of competition in electricity markets.

Dr Gail Marcus appointed new Deputy Director-General of the NEA [FR]
The Secretary-General of the OECD, Mr. Donald Johnston, is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Gail H. Marcus as Deputy Director-General of the NEA, succeeding Ms. Carol Kessler. Dr. Marcus takes up her duties at the NEA on 5 April 2004.

Revised Nuclear Third Party Liability Conventions improve victims' rights to compensation [FR]
The signing of the Protocols to amend the Paris Convention on Third Party Liability in the Field of Nuclear Energy and the Brussels Convention Supplementary to the Paris Convention will take place on 12 February, at OECD headquarters. The revised Conventions will allow for a considerable increase in the amount of compensation available to victims of a nuclear accident and for the expansion of the scope of application of the Paris Convention. (11 February 2004).


2003

Plutonium management in the medium term [FR]
Plutonium Management in the Medium Term, a new NEA report, reviews the technical options available for plutonium management from the present up to the point at which a fully sustainable fuel cycle is eventually established. Describing the various proposals that have been made in recent years, this report presents a discussion of the rationale, technical attributes, capabilities and current status of each.

International meeting discusses the role of supercomputing in nuclear applications [FR]
The role and benefits of high-performance computing in complex simulations carried out by researchers, industry and universities in the specific field of nuclear applications were the subject of expert discussions at the Fifth International Conference on Supercomputing in Nuclear Applications (SNA-2003), held in Paris on 22-24 September 2003.

Planning ahead for future decommissioning of nuclear power plants [FR]
A new report on Decommissioning Nuclear Power Plants released by the NEA analyses the relationships between nuclear power plant decommissioning policies as developed by governments, decommissioning strategies as proposed by industry and the resulting decommissioning costs.

NEA reviews the French R&D programme on deep geological disposal of radioactive waste [FR]
The OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) has just released the report of an International Peer Review of the so-called "Dossier 2001 Argile" which the French Government had requested the NEA to submit to a high-level international evaluation.

Just published: Nuclear Energy Today [FR]
The NEA announces the publication of a new report Nuclear Energy Today, which aims to provide, in a simple, short and clear style, authoritative and factual information on the main aspects of nuclear energy in today's world.

Measuring, assessing and communicating regulatory effectiveness (MACRE 2003) [FR]
Under the aegis of the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA), heads of OECD member country nuclear regulatory authorities met on 17-18 June 2003 with high-level government officials and executives from the nuclear industry to exchange perspectives on measuring, assessing and communicating nuclear regulatory effectiveness.

NEA Annual Report 2002: Adjusting to the needs for international co-operation in nuclear energy [FR]
In its 2002 Annual Report published today, the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) notes that during the year the nuclear option was brought back on the agenda of several energy policy makers in Europe and North America.

Nuclear energy data to 2020 in OECD countries [FR]
In 2002, nuclear electricity generation remained at the same level as in 2001, with a total output of nearly 2 170 terawatt-hours (TWh), representing 23.8% of total electricity generation in OECD countries. Seventeen OECD countries have nuclear power plants in operation providing between 4% (in the Netherlands) and 78% (in France) of their electricity generation.


2002

First results of an NEA-sponsored experiment on the mitigation of severe nuclear accidents [FR]

Successful international experiment on limiting the consequences of severe nuclear reactor reactor accidents [FR] 

Nuclear energy data to 2010 in OECD countries [FR]

New review of world uranium resources, production and demand [FR]

Nuclear energy and the Kyoto Protocol [FR]

Fostering an international dialogue between nuclear regulators and operators [FR]

International accident dosimetry intercomparison exercise to be held on 10-21 June 2002 [FR]

Slovak Republic joins the NEA [FR]

NEA Annual Report 2001 [FR]

NEA announces the publication of several new reports

New report by the NEA and the IEA – The role of external costs in energy policy [FR]

NEA assesses safety issues and research needs for nuclear reactors of the future [FR]

Protecting the environment from harmful effects of radiation – towards a new international policy [FR]

NEA investigates future options for the nuclear fuel cycle [FR]


2001

Slovenia joins the Paris Convention on Nuclear Third Party Liability [FR]

Ms Carol Kessler appointed new Deputy Director-General of the NEA[FR]

First International School of Nuclear Law (ISNL) opens in Montpellier, France with the co-operation of the NEA

NEA Annual Report 2000 [FR]

Nuclear energy data to 2010 in OECD countries [FR]

Fifty-four countries and five international organisations join in a world-wide exercise in nuclear emergency management [FR]

The NEA reflects on better integration of radiation protection in modern society [FR]


2000

Improving public trust in nuclear regulators [FR]

The NEA evaluates nuclear energy in a sustainable development perspective [FR]

Expert seminar reviews results of the NEA RASPLAV project [FR]

NEA reports just published [FR]

NEA launches an international forum on stakeholder confidence in the area of radioactive waste management [FR]

New review of world uranium resources, production and demand [FR]

OSPAR Commission welcomes NEA report on radiological impacts of spent nuclear fuel management options [FR]

Assuring nuclear competence into the 21stcentury [FR]

Enhancing safety in the nuclear fuel cycle [FR]

Nuclear energy data to 2010 in OECD/NEA countries: Nuclear generation share highest in the OECD Pacific area [FR]

Nuclear power plant operating experiences: An international report [FR]

New technical report on the radiological impacts of spent nuclear fuel management options [FR]

New NEA Report on predicting radiation damage to reactor components [FR]

Proceedings of the NEA international symposium on the reform of civil nuclear liability [FR]

NEA to organise an international workshop on the safety of nuclear fuel cycle facilities [FR]

Reducing the capital costs of nuclear power plants [FR]

NEA reports no safety problems in nuclear facilities during the millenium rollover [FR]


1999

Year-end Y2K information contact at the NEA / Point de contact AEN sur le passage a l'an 2000 durant la fin de l'année (bilingual)

NEA will organise an international intercomparison of dosimetry systems in the event of criticality accidents in 2001 [FR]

International early warning system on millennium bug successfully tested by the NEA [FR]

NEA takes stock of progress towards geological disposal of radioactive waste [FR]

Policy makers discuss the future of nuclear power at the OECD [FR]

NEA publishes a new report on environmental activities in uranium mining and milling [FR]

International conference sponsored by the NEA on criticality risks in the nuclear industry opens today [FR]

International workshop assessed nuclear regulatory effectiveness [FR]

Successful international experiment on limiting consequences of severe nuclear reactor accidents [FR]

NEA Annual Report 1998 [FR]

NEA organises an international symposium on the reform of civil nuclear liability [FR]

Nuclear energy generation in OECD/NEA countries to continue growing through 2010 despite nuclear reactor retirements in several countries [FR]

NEA completes an international review of the Russian Minatom Nuclear Safety Research Strategic Plan [FR]

Nuclear industry strengthens preparedness for the passage to the year 2000 (Y2K) [FR]

International workshop to enhance nuclear industry's preparedness for the passage to the year 2000 (Y2K) [FR]


1998

Forty years of international co-operation in the field of nuclear energy

NEA to sponsor an extensive international nuclear emergency exercise in Hungary

The millenium bug and the nuclear industry

Radiation health sciences report

Projected costs of generating electricity in 2005-2010: increasing competitiveness of gas, versus coal and nuclear

NEA identifies future challenges facing nuclear regulators

New review on world uranium resources, production and demand

Nuclear energy generation in OECD/NEA countries will continue to grow at 0.9% per year until 2010

Nuclear power and climate change

Radioactive waste management in OECD/NEA member countries

New overview of nuclear legislation in Eastern Europe

NEA reviews safety research needs for Russian-designed reactors


1997

New NEA report investigates capabilities and facilities for nuclear safety research in OECD countries

Mr Luis Echávarri, new Director-General of the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency, takes up his duties on 1 July 1997

New NEA study on the management of plutonium

Nuclear energy generation in OECD/NEA countries will continue To grow at 1.7 per cent per year beyond 2000

New NEA report on radiation

International seminar helps resolve nuclear liability and insurance issues in Russia

NEA to sponsor an international nuclear emergency exercise in Finland

NEA advocates further government/industry co-operation in addressing new reactor fuel performance and safety margins

NEA organises international discussions on regulating the long-term safety of radioactive waste disposal

Implementing severe nuclear accident management programmes

Decommissioning of nuclear facilities: Two new NEA publications


1996

History of the Eurochemic Company, 1956-1990

Informing the public about radioactive waste management

Successful first experiment in the Rasplav International Nuclear Reactor Safety Project in Russia

NEA warns against risks of cut-backs in nuclear safety research

NEA to organise a series of international nuclear emergency exercises

Czech Republic and Hungary join the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA)

Research institutes remain essential to maintain scientific and technical expertise in the nuclear field

Joint NEA/IAEA international peer review of the long-term safety assessment of the US Department of Energy radioactive Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP)

Nuclear energy generation in OECD/NEA countries to increase beyond 2000

Uranium 1995: Resources, Production and Demand

Radioactive waste management in perspective

Future financial liabilities of nuclear activities

Chernobyl accident: NEA assesses the consequences

NEA analyses lessons from an international nuclear emergency exercise

New NEA study on national legislation in the nuclear field

OECD countries reaffirm their consensus on the prevention of severe nuclear accidents


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