The goal of the NEA in this sector is to provide governments and other relevant stakeholders with authoritative, reliable information and analyses on current and future nuclear technologies, as well as on the role of nuclear energy now and in the future from a sustainable development perspective. These studies cover subjects as key and as diverse as economics, finance, contracting, energy and electricity demand and supply, advances in nuclear reactor design, innovation, uranium, nuclear fuel and fuel cycle technologies. This allows the NEA to advise decision makers on national and international energy policies aiming to provide low-carbon electricity cost-effectively and reliably. To meet this goal, staff in the division and the Committee for Technical and Economic Studies on Nuclear Energy Development and the Fuel Cycle (NDC), with its expert groups in this area, work closely to: 

• Analyse the economics of nuclear power across the full nuclear fuel cycle as well as at the electrical- system level in the context of changes in electricity markets, social acceptance and technological advances, and assist member countries in evaluating the role of nuclear energy in their energy policies; 

• Foster international co-operation on the development of innovative nuclear energy systems; 

• Review the role of nuclear energy in the broader perspective of climate change and sustainable development; 

• Analyse the contribution of nuclear power to the smooth functioning of low-carbon electricity systems; 

• Assess the availability of nuclear fuel, including uranium resources, and the infrastructure required for its development and the deployment of existing and future nuclear technology, identifying any eventual gaps; 

• Review the role of research and development in new nuclear technologies and their impact in energy generation and non-power applications; 

• Assist member countries, upon request, in addressing emerging concerns related to nuclear technology and radioactive materials, including the stable supply of medical radioisotopes; 

• Engage within and outside the OECD framework to establish a communication network aimed at providing factual information on nuclear issues. 

Committees

Committees oversee the strategic direction and governance of our activities. They set objectives, review progress, and ensure alignment with the broader mission.

• Committee for Technical and Economic Studies on Nuclear Energy Development and the Fuel Cycle, known as the Nuclear Development Committee (NDC)

Working Groups

Working groups focus on technical, thematic, or emerging issues that require in-depth expertise and collaborative problem-solving. They provide analysis, recommendations, and outputs that inform decision-making and future work.

• The Joint NEA/IAEA Group on Uranium (UG)
• Working Party on Nuclear Energy Economics (WPNE)
• Working Group on Hydrogen Value Chains (H2-VAL)  
• Small Modular Reactor Economics Working Group (SMR-ECON) 

How They Work

Committees and working groups operate through regular meetings, consultations, and written outputs. Their work is guided by transparency, inclusiveness, and a commitment to evidence-based outcomes.