A. R. ANTARIKSAWAN, I. SUBKI National Atomic Energy Agency,

Tangerang, Indonesia

Abstract

Based on the result of the Feasibility Study undertaken since 1991, Indonesia may enter in the new nuclear era by introduction of several Nuclear Power Plants in our energy supply system. Requirements for the future NPP’s are developed in two step approach. First step is for the immediate future that is the next 50 years where the system will be dominated by A-LWR’s/A-PHWR’s and the second step is for the time period beyond 50 years in which new reactor systems may start to dominate. The integral reactor concept provides a revolutionary improvements in terms of conceptual and safety. However, it creates a new set of complexe machinery and operational problems of its own. The paper concerns with a brief description of nuclear technology status in Indonesia and a qualitative asssessment of integral reactor concept.

INTRODUCTION

In Indonesia, a developing country with low per capita gross national product, energy consumption since 1970 has been continually increasing in support of the development in all sectors. In case of electricity, the rate of increase of electricity consumption during the last two years has been more than 15% per year. This poses serious challenges to both natural and financial resources of the country. The fossil energy is not unlimited. Hence, it is necessary to diversify our energy resources. The integration of Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs) in energy supply development has been considered based on the national energy policy which is stipulates among others : diversification, environmental concerns and conservation in support of sustainable development.

A comprehensive and in-depth Feasibility Study has been under taken since November 1991 to give strong justification to Nuclear Power Plants introduction in our electricity system. This study covers both techno-economic and safety aspects as well as site and environmental aspects.

Based on the Feasibility Study Report, also called Non-Site Study Report, which is submitted on December 30, 1993, coal fired plants will dominate the electricity generation system. The optimization shows that the first NPP is feasible in the year 2004. The contribution of NPP will increase in accordance with the demand.

Regarding the reactor nuclear technology and safety requirements, two steps approach has been considered : for the next 50 years period and beyond 50 years. In the first period, the NPPs will be dominated by present proven system with some evolutionary improvements in technology and safety. Beyond 50 years, new evolutionary and revolutionary type of reactors may emerge, with very special characteristics in terms of conceptual, safety, fuel and performances aspects. In this period, the integrated type of reactor, which is a complete departure from current LWR design, might have a great chance to enter in the market.