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Department of Nuclear Energy

IAEA Nuclear Energy Series Introduces its Cornerstone Publication


The Nuclear Energy Basic Principles

While countries without nuclear power programmes need information and guidance on the availability, benefits and costs of different technologies, countries with established nuclear power programmes want information on maintaining operational effectiveness and on technological developments in line with the best international experience. Recognizing Member States’ different requirements regarding the use of nuclear technology, the Agency developed the IAEA Nuclear Energy Series (NE Series) of publications.

The foundation of this series, Nuclear Energy Basic Principles, describes the rationale and vision for the peaceful uses of nuclear energy, identifying the basic principles on which nuclear energy systems should be based to fulfil their potential to meet growing global energy demands.

This new publication outlines the beneficial, responsible and sustainable use of nuclear power. It clearly identifies and describes eight basic principles, specifically: benefits, transparency, protection of people and the environment, security, non-proliferation, long term commitment, resource efficiency and continual improvement. These basic principles are intended to provide a holistic approach to the use of nuclear energy and to be equally applicable to all elements of nuclear energy systems, including human resources and technical, management and economic aspects.

The basic principles described within this publication are of critical importance as they form the basis of discussion for all three document levels within the Nuclear Energy Series: Objectives, Guides and Technical Reports. The Nuclear Energy Series covers topics within four distinct subject areas: Nuclear General, Nuclear Power, Nuclear Fuel Cycle and Radioactive Waste Management and Decommissioning, and complements other publications such as those in the IAEA Safety Standards Series, the IAEA Nuclear Security Series, those dealing with safeguards and publications issued by other organizations.

Related Links:

Nuclear Energy Basic Principles

Nuclear Energy Series

Brochure: Nuclear Energy Series