76. Extreme Heat and the Future of Nuclear Reliability

What do rising river temperatures, lower water levels, and jellyfish have in common? They're all emerging challenges for nuclear power plant operations. In this episode of EPRI Current, host Samantha Gilman is joined by EPRI experts Kurt Crytzer and Jonathan Black to explore how extreme heat is reshaping nuclear plant operations in Europe and beyond, and why water is one of the industry's most critical resources.     From rising water temperatures and lower river levels to changing aquatic ecosystems and even jellyfish blooms, they examine how extreme weather conditions can impact cooling systems, plant performance, and grid reliability. Experts highlight EPRI's research to help utilities better anticipate, monitor, and adapt to these challenges through advanced forecasting tools and resilience-focused solutions.      Interested in the topics discussed in this episode? Check out these EPRI resources:

• HOL A DELEJ?: Real-time dashboard of Hungary's power system and the Paks Nuclear Power Plant: https://holadelej.hu/en/
• Intake Reliability Interest Group (IRIG): EPRI program focused on cooling water intake reliability and emerging operational challenges: https://www.epri.com/research/products/000000003002033455

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EPRI Current examines key issues and new R&D impacting the energy transition. Each episode features insights from EPRI, the world's preeminent independent, non-profit energy research and development organization, and from other energy industry leaders. We also discuss how innovative technologies are shaping the global energy future. Learn more at www.epri.com