How Much Internalization of Nuclear Risk Through Liability Insurance?

B-Tier
Journal: Journal of Risk and Uncertainty
Year: 2004
Volume: 29
Issue: 3
Pages: 219-240

Authors (2)

Yves Schneider (Universität Luzern) Peter Zweifel (not in RePEc)

Score contribution per author:

1.005 = (α=2.01 / 2 authors) × 1.0x B-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

An important source of conflict surrounding nuclear energy is that with a very small probability, a large-scale nuclear accident may occur. One way to internalize the associated financial risks is through mandating nuclear operators to have liability insurance. This paper presents estimates of consumers' willingness to pay for increased financial security provided by an extension of coverage, based on the 'stated choice' approach. A Swiss citizen with median characteristics may be willing to pay 0.14 US cents per kwh to increase coverage beyond the current CHF 0.7 billion (bn.) (US$ 0.47 bn.). Marginal willingness to pay declines with higher coverage but exceeds marginal cost at least up to CHF 4 bn.(US$ 2.7 bn.). An extension of nuclear liability insurance coverage therefore may be efficiency-enhancing.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:kap:jrisku:v:29:y:2004:i:3:p:219-240
Journal Field
Theory
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-29