The renewed focus on nuclear power is facing a number of challenges with a broad shortage of skilled tradespeople in the sector exacerbated by the imminent retirement of the current nuclear workforce, UK-based consulting firm Charles River Associates (CRA) says in a report.
The report, Advanced Nuclear Reactor Technologies: A Tailwind for Nuclear Energy Revival, says a multiyear, multi-unit buildup of nuclear reactors will require addressing the labour shortage at various stages, including education, recruitment for entry-level positions and the identification of highly skilled master tradespeople.
In parallel, the supply of nuclear fuel has emerged as a significant concern for the US and Western European countries.