WASHINGTON– Nuclear power plants need to improve security systems to safeguard against non-traditional terrorist attacks, but that’s challenging for developing countries, nuclear security experts said Thursday.
Nuclear power has grown in popularity in some regions because it is a constant zero-carbon energy source. Countries rely more on nuclear energy as a primary source of power as a way of reducing carbon emissions and complying with standards set by the Paris climate talks, said Michael Wautlet, director of nuclear energy policy for the National Security Council.
However, a report released by the Stimson Center says many countries do not have the resources to adequately protect their nuclear facilities from insider or cybersecurity attacks.
“In particular countries in close proximity to terrorist groups with vulnerable or unstable economies, the potential for incidents are much higher,” said Debra Decker, the report’s co-author and Stimson Center senior advisor.
