French transition scenarios toward a symbiotic nuclear fleet
Résumé
Scenario studies are performed in France to explore future options of nuclear energy development within the limits of conservative criteria defined by AREVA, EDF and CEA. These scenarios assume a constant electricity production. They ultimately lead to nuclear systems which do not need any natural uranium supply. Here a fleet composed of 10 MOX fueled EPRTM (European Pressurized water Reactor) and 28 breeder SFR (Sodium Fast Reactor) of 1.51 GWe is deployed it is symbiotic since plutonium production and consumption balance. SFR and EPR MOX fuels are reprocessed together at equilibrium.Two scenarios are presented the progressive transition to the symbiotic equilibrium begins from 2150 whereas the fast transition starts in 2090. When transitioning, 10 EPRTM are fed with MOX (to 30% at least) while a considerable number of SFR are deployed. Plutonium availability is therefore so critical that the fast transition is only possible at the price of a significant increase of the reprocessing capacity, over 1700 tHM/yr for near 30 years. Substantial natural uranium savings and spent fuel reduction are achieved in the 22nd century with respect to a one-through cycle. This study raises a new area of consideration for a sustainable development of nuclear energy in France.