Market drivers

 

 

Electricity generated from nuclear reactors remained a significant contributor to global energy supply in 2023, with a worldwide nuclear power output of approximately 2,532 TWh. As of 2024, there are 392 operating nuclear reactors, providing about 10% of the world’s electricity. Globally, numerous reactors remain under construction, with active building projects in countries such as China, India, Japan, the Russian Federation, South Korea, France, Finland, Slovakia, Romania, and Bulgaria. Major nuclear electricity producers include the United States (94 reactors), China (57 reactors), France (57 reactors), Russia (37 reactors), and South Korea (26 reactors), all playing pivotal roles in their national energy mixes.

 

 

Nuclear energy continues to play a crucial role in the fight against climate change. As the world strives to keep the rise in temperature below 2°C, nuclear power stands as the second largest source of low-carbon electricity, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and supporting global decarbonization efforts.

 

However, to gain public acceptance, nuclear power must be perceived as being absolutely safe, under all conditions both in the present and for generations to come. ENERGEN® high performance cables play an important role by providing long-term viability and assuring fail-safe operation indefinitely.

 

Lynxeo's nuclear cables help assure a clean source of economical energy for coming generations.

From basic power to complex control and communications, Lynxeo's cables are omnipresent in the nuclear industry. To satisfy the most rigorous safety standards, Lynxeo has designed exceptionally robust cables and developed a line of halogen-free cables that keep operating during an emergency, while protecting people and infrastructure. We draw on 35 years’ experience in thermal, radiation and design-based event testing.

 

Our close partnership with nuclear engineers has meant cables customized and fully adapted to nuclear needs. Where radiation-protection and LOCA (Loss of Cooling Accident) procedures are required for fast automatic shutdown, Lynxeo manufactures highly reliable K1 (1E-LOCA) cables. Elsewhere, K3 (1E non LOCA and non-1E) cables assure flawless performance over a lifetime. Both K1 and K3 cables provide the highest levels of performance by limiting the spread of fire and emitting little smoke and toxic gases.

 

Specific nuclear qualifications

• RCCE: Design and Construction Rules for Electrical Equipment for Nuclear Island
• CST/BTS: Book of technical specifications: Electrical Cables for Nuclear Power Plants
• IEEE 323: for nuclear power plant equipment
• IEEE 383: for (1) thermal aging, (2) radiation, and (3) LOCA test; with (1) (2) and (3) for last day accident simulation, and (2) and (3) for first day of operation.

 

Lynxeo is a key participant in the TeaM Cables project – European Tools and Methodologies for an efficient ageing management of Nuclear Power Plant Cables – a European research initiative  dedicated to enhancing nuclear safety and ensuring the long-term operation of nuclear power plants. This project brings together leading organizations and experts to develop advanced tools, methodologies, and best practices for monitoring, assessing, and managing the ageing of electrical cables within nuclear facilities. Lynxeo’s involvement demonstrates its commitment to innovation and its active contribution to the continuous improvement of safety standards in the nuclear energy sector.