Twenty years ago the nuclear industry came together to create WANO – the World Association of Nuclear Operators.

The driving force to establish WANO was the Chernobyl nuclear plant accident and the determination of nuclear operators worldwide to ensure that such an accident should never happen again. Formally established in Moscow on 15 May 1989, WANO has since built a solid reputation for professionalism and excellence. Its ground-breaking programmes have won widespread respect throughout the industry.

‘The key to WANO’s strength has been the focus on safety through international cooperation,’ says Laurent Stricker, WANO Chairman. ‘Our single aim, “to maximise the safety and reliability of nuclear power plant operation”, remains as relevant today as it was 20 years ago.’

WANO unites all the companies in the world that operate a commercial nuclear power plant. Membership includes the operating companies of 447 nuclear plants in over 30 countries, and these numbers are set to increase further still as more countries turn to nuclear power as a sustainable source of electricity.

‘Collectively the industry has made great progress in safety and reliability. Our major programmes have matured and are being widely used as a resource by our members,’ says Stricker. ‘Cooperation and exchange of information among stations is better than ever, and we have seen a strong improvement in safety performance over the past 20 years. Performance indicators show good results, and the number of peer reviews, and technical support missions are higher than ever and still climbing.’

Looking to the future, WANO leaders are working with nuclear plant operators worldwide to ensure that the next 20 years continue to build on this record of achievement. With a nuclear revival underway, WANO is committed to helping ensure the future success of the industry through continued sharing, communication and mutual support on safety-related matters.

To mark its 20th anniversary, WANO is holding a special conference in St. Petersburg, at the end of May.

‘This conference acknowledges the tremendous contribution made by the WANO founders,’ says Stricker. ‘At the same time, it will encourage the next generation of leaders to embrace the goals, objectives and spirit of WANO.’