Analyzing the techno-economic role of nuclear power in the Dutch net-zero energy system transition

To analyze the role of nuclear power in an integrated energy system, we used IESA-Opt-N cost minimization model focusing on four key themes: system-wide impacts power, uncertain technological costs, flexible generation, and cross-border electricity trade. We demonstrate that LCOE (levelized electricity) alone should not be to economic feasibility a generation technology. For instance, under default techno-economic assumptions, particularly 5% discount rate exogenous trade potentials, it is cost-optimal for Netherlands invest 9.6 GWe capacity by 2050. However, its 34 €/MWh higher than offshore wind. Moreover, found investments can reduce demand variable renewable sources short term independence (i.e., lower imports natural gas, biomass, long term. Furthermore, investing mitigation costs Dutch system 1.6% 6.2% 2040 2050, 25% national CO2 prices this reduction significant given odds financing longer construction times. In addition, with 3% interest value (e.g., EU taxonomy support), even high (10 B€/GW) cost-effective Netherlands. conclusion, specific assumptions study, play complementary (in parallel wind solar power) supporting transition from sole point view.