Selection of Site for Nuclear Power Plants

Various points to be considered in selection of site for nuclear power plants are as follows :

1. Availability of water for steam generation and cooling water for condenser. It should be nearer to sea, river or reservoir.
2. Nearer to load centre to reduce power transmission losses.
3. Away from populated area to safeguard the people from hazardous radioactive radiations.
4. Availability of transport facility for transportation of people and material at the time of its construction by road and rail.
5. Safeguard against earthquakes : The site should be away from seismic zone.
6. Radioactive waste disposal : The wastes of nuclear power plants being radioactive, the site should have sufficient space near the plant for its disposal.
7. Soil conditions for foundation : The bearing capacity of soil should be high so as to support heavy reactors on its foundations. The bearing capacity must be atleast 7.50 N/cm².