Thursday, February 25, 2010, 16:00
WHGA Auditorium
S. Hirschberg, PSI
Abstract:
The merits and drawbacks of nuclear energy can be understood and evaluated in a balanced manner only in a comparative perspective covering nuclear energy along with other major technological options for generating electricity. A framework for systematic comparative evaluation of energy systems has been developed at the Paul Scherrer Institut (PSI), aiming at transparency and systematic use of the objective knowledge basis. It allows to addressing crucial aspects of nuclear and other energy sources, related to economic, environmental and social dimensions, considered relevant for policy making.
The presentation will highlight insights from applications covering fossil, nuclear and renewable electricity supply systems. The comparative advantages of nuclear energy along with the counteracting implications of some problematic issues will be demonstrated based on comprehensive, quantitative and integrated studies carried out for a variety of countries.