It does not produce the gases that cause the greenhouse effect or acid rain. Shutdown and control devices are located in a low pressure area of the core and are not affected by a loss of coolant. It is the most efficient of all reactors in using uranium resources. The moveable fuel bundles in the pressure tubes allow maximum burn-up of all the fuel in the reactor core. Use of natural uranium widens the source of supply and makes fuel fabrication easier.
Most countries can manufacture the relatively inexpensive fuel.
Fuel reprocessing is not needed so costs, facilities and waste disposal associated with reprocessing are avoided. This reduces dependency on uranium in the event of future supply shortage and price increases. All power plants, including nuclear plants, require regular maintenance to remain efficient and safe for many years. Each component has a service life. When a component no longer meets the fitness test, it is replaced, often with an upgraded replacement part, owing to advances in materials and components.