2019 GIF Annual Report

The 2019 Generation IV International Forum (GIF) Annual Report highlights significant progress in the development of Generation IV (Gen-IV) reactor systems, despite the complexities of the evolving energy market. These reactors that will be part of the sustainable future of nuclear energy. Since 2001, GIF has promoted international collaboration on R&D for six types of Gen-IV reactor systems using sodium, lead, gas, molten salt, and supercritical water coolants. The aim is to achieve commercial deployment of these advanced systems from the 2030s onwards, adhering to goals of safety, economics, sustainability, and proliferation resistance.

In 2019, GIF set new directions and priorities, focusing on safety and regulation, market opportunities and challenges, R&D collaboration, and attracting the younger generation. Key efforts included developing international safety design criteria and guidelines, engaging with global nuclear safety communities, and emphasizing the integration of Gen-IV systems with renewable energy sources to create reliable, flexible clean energy systems. The report underscores the importance of stronger cooperation between R&D bodies and the private sector to address future market opportunities and design constraints.

The year also marked significant organizational changes within GIF, with the introduction of a new governance structure aimed at addressing the challenges of a deregulated energy market and a decarbonized society. This new structure emphasizes the critical role of cross-cutting working groups in areas such as safety, economics, market opportunities, and compatibility with renewables.

GIF actively promoted its work through various international conferences and workshops, including the CEM10 side event in Vancouver and the IAEA meeting on climate change and nuclear power in Vienna. These events provided platforms to showcase the benefits of Gen-IV reactor systems and foster collaborations with industry stakeholders.

In 2019, GIF also made strides in technical progress across its six reactor systems and cross-cutting issues, with notable achievements in areas such as safety design criteria and the integration of Gen-IV systems into clean energy frameworks. Additionally, GIF refreshed its communication strategy, including the launch of webinars and a targeted communication plan to enhance its outreach and impact.

The 2019 Annual Report encapsulates these activities and achievements, providing a comprehensive overview of GIF's efforts to advance Gen-IV reactor technologies and support a sustainable, low-carbon energy future.