New Zealand too small for nuclear power - electricity chief

The head of the Electricity Commission says a nuclear power plant would be too big for New Zealand's needs.

A survey of 500 people by Research New Zealand suggests 36% of respondents believe nuclear energy should be considered.

Commission chairman David Caygill says an average-sized nuclear plant of 1000-megawatt capacity would end up creating system problems.

He says any single generation plant needs the equivalent backup in case it fails for any reason.

Mr Caygill says this is difficult enough now when the biggest single source of generation in New Zealand is 375 megawatts.

He says the cost of producing electricity at a nuclear station is about twice that of alternatives.

Mr Caygill says a nuclear power industry would also require huge infrastructure.

(Source: Radio New Zealand)