Research and development 26. Research and development must also adapt to changing priorities. The potential competitive advantages in keeping existing nuclear plants operating highlights the importance of research on safely managing the ageing of nuclear plants. Work on streamlining regulatory processes is also called for. For new plants, the challenges of competitive markets focus research and development on concepts and technologies to reduce capital costs.
Few companies are ready to finance long-term research for concepts beyond current technologies.
Research and development into alternative energy sources is essential for countries wishing to forego nuclear power. For non-hydro renewable energy sources to be economically viable alternatives, they must be further developed. Research into technologies with higher levels of energy efficiency is also needed to help limit the growth in energy demand. Many countries provide support or subsidisies to renewables to facilitate their growth in the electricity market. Globalisation of nuclear power 28.