Preliminary study of the sub-medium São Francisco region overlooking the installation of future Brazilian nuclear power plants

Abstract

Preliminary studies of site selection for the installation of nuclear plants in the northeast of Brazil have shown that the São Francisco river basin is a possible region for the implementation of these plants. For their operation, however, nuclear power plants require a reliable source of water for the cooling of heat rejected from the condenser that is sufficient for normal operation, shutdown, postulated accident conditions, and fire protection. The objective of this paper is to discuss safety issues and environmental impacts arising from the placement of nuclear power plants at the São Francisco river basin. The approach taken considered water availability throughout the year, the maintenance of thermal balance and climate changes. The present discussion indicates the necessity of a long-term management plan for the various uses of the São Francisco basin. An economic and social approach to the impacts of nuclear power plant operation and other agricultural and industrial activities in the region is also necessary. Finally, the study suggests the adoption of a variable-cycle cooling system, which will enable operation in all types of hydrological conditions expected in the São Francisco basin.