Originally published at NUS.edu
The most recent worldwide statistics show that the number of nuclear power plants being built or contemplated has remained roughly stable in the aftermath of the Fukushima accident. The principal focus of nuclear new build, however, continues to shift towards the emerging world. Several countries in Asia and Central and Eastern Europe are at the forefront of this trend, embarking on numerous programmes. Many parts of the developed world are also planning new nuclear power plants. The United Kingdom, for example, has commissioned the construction of what will be its largest nuclear plant, and is welcoming nuclear as a significant part of its future energy mix. The lessons of Fukushima, and the response of its operator Tepco (Tokyo Electric Power Company), will ultimately set a new and improved standard of safety for new nuclear reactors throughout the world.