Title: Is nuclear energy an alternative: a case of technology assessment in Oregon

Authors: Georgina Harell, Noah Third, Tugrul Daim

Addresses: Department of Engineering and Technology Management, Portland State University, P.O. Box 751, Portland OR 97207, USA. ' Department of Engineering and Technology Management, Portland State University, P.O. Box 751, Portland OR 97207, USA. ' Department of Engineering and Technology Management, Portland State University, P.O. Box 751, Portland OR 97207, USA

Abstract: This paper presents a technology assessment of the technology alternatives to meet Oregon|s energy needs while meeting its goals for the environment and consumers. The analysis focused on comparing nuclear power with other sources of energy. Methodologies including Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) analysis, hierarchical decision models and expert interviews were used. This technology assessment found that nuclear technology was selected by a narrow margin over the alternate |always on| sources of electrical power. Subsequently the results from the expert survey indicate that the Pressurised Water Reactor (PWR) is favoured in nuclear technology.

Keywords: technology assessment; hierarchical decision modelling; Oregon; USA; United States; energy alternatives; nuclear energy; nuclear power; SWOT analysis; pressurised water reactors; PWR.

DOI: 10.1504/IJNGEE.2010.033309

International Journal of Nuclear Governance, Economy and Ecology, 2010 Vol.3 No.2, pp.150 - 179

Published online: 24 May 2010 *

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