PROSPECTS OF NUCLEAR ENERGY SECTOR OF UKRAINE IN CONDITIONS OF SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

This article examines the current prospects for developing nuclear energy in Ukraine terms of sustainable development. The strategic importance is indicated. advantages context electricity production's external costs over other generation technologies are noted. Today, considered most cost-effective low-carbon source. An analysis reports from Atomic Energy Agency and US Department shows that power a leader many countries' sector, producing cheaper than traditional TPPs. main challenges system highlighted. Among them are: wear tear impact on environment thermal (equipment at plants worn out by 70–90 %); unsatisfactory pace modernization generating capacities, mainly TPPs; inconsistency flexibility United System (UES) with development "green" (increasing share increases risks UES sustainability) corresponding ill-consideredness scale renewable implementation. Lack shunting power; need to duplicate capacity due low installed factor (ICUF) significant dependence natural climatic conditions; replace existing units, which end their extended service life new, more modern ones will meet latest safety economy standards; imperfection market, primarily its sale producers under bilateral agreements; deficit investments whole fuel complex. identified. Completion Units 3 4 Khmelnytskyi NPP (KhNPP) remains critical prospect. obstacle this lack appropriate Ukrainian side curtailment cooperation Russia companies belonging state. Another promising units KhNPP based WWER-1000 belong second generation, today do not morally trends requirements efficiency standards. Theoretically, Western leaders industry, Orano Westinghouse, could develop next-generation "3" "3+" reactors, where essential already embedded original design unit. option would be implement small modular reactor technology project Ukraine. Technologically, quickly resolve issue load management, arose rapid increase our country. type has advantage, addition minimum is: possibility placement areas additional services needed market; construction costs; frequency operating time; full cycle work fuel. In general, low-power reactors can used strategy hybrid (renewable + energy).