Nuclear power : policy and prospects /

This is the third title in a planned series on world energy options. Jones, a recognized expert on energy economics and one of the three series editors, pursues the theme that societies must have access to a wide range of energy supply alternatives; he has written approximately 40% of the book, including the critical final section. There are contributions from 15 other authorities. After a brief introduction to reactor physics, the nuclear fuel cycle, and uses other than electricity generation, Section 2 reviews several areas of public controversy, including relative risk and decommissioning. Section 3, one third of the book, is a summary of experience with nuclear power-historical/analytical essays from the US, France, Canada, UK, FRG, Japan, and India-plus a more general discussion of prospects for developing countries. (Throughout the book, there is limited reference to, or information on, the Soviet Union and the other centrally planned economies.) These three sections make an altogether convincing case: nuclear power is not a temporary or experimental program, nor is it a monolithic invention; it is a mature, diverse technology, an established and proven component of the world energy picture. Section 4 addresses the title subject of the book; it examines potential, incentives, and constraints, largely in terms of economics and long-term strategic planning. There are chapter references and a thorough index. An excellent resource for those interested in energy policy and management.-D.W. Larson, University of Regina