The US nuclear industry: a changing complexion

The direction and character of the nuclear power industry more than a decade after its course was profoundly altered by the Arab oil embargo and the accident at Three Mile Island are described. Nuclear utilities are finding that the extremely competitive environment in the operation and maintenance of plants has led to cut-rate prices and a host of new services. Still, the prospect of committing to a new nuclear plant remains unattractive to most, so long as no significant changes occur in the state regulatory and licensing climates. Caught in the middle are the businesses that make up the industry´s three core categories: the suppliers, who design and produce reactors and steam supply systems; the architect-engineers (A-Es), who design plants around that equipment; and the service providers, who perform tests, maintenance, and refueling, do inspections, and control inventory at nuclear plants. A-Es have been forced to look beyond the nuclear industry for new business. However, nearly all major A-Es are striving to stay in the industry and keep as many of their experienced engineers as possible.<>