Improving the energy efficiency of NPP

The objective of the present study is the analysis and assessment of potential ways for enhancing the energy efficiency of nuclear power generation.Currently used and promising advanced thermodynamic cycles of nuclear power plants in power generation are examined. Ways for enhancing parameters of working agents in the NPP steam-turbine plants are suggested. Thermodynamic assessment was made of enhancement of thermal efficiency of NPP equipped with fast reactors due to the increase of coolant temperature at the reactor core outlet and, correspondingly, the increase of temperature and pressure of steam generated by steam generator. Analysis of efficiency of utilization of waste low-potential heat at the NPP using heat pumps was performed.Contemporary level of development of machine building industry for power generation, development of high-efficiency high-temperature gas turbines and steam compressors allow addressing the possibility to achieve high conjugated parameters of steam at NPPs equipped with conventional light-water reactors without exceeding the permissible conditions for operation of reactor cores with fuel cladding made of zirconium alloys.Application of heat pumps within the cooling circuit of the main condenser of steam-turbine power plant for the purpose of enhancement of financial indicators is not justifiable. As it was demonstrated by estimation calculations, the use of heat pumps within the main condenser loop is promising only for reducing heat discharged by NPPs in the environment. Utilization using heat pumps of low-potential heat removed by equipment cooling systems is the efficient way to improve NPP efficiency. Non-productive extraction of steam from the thermal cycle of the power unit is reduced in this case which results in the additional power generation as well as reduces heat disposal in the environment.