The Impact of Macroeconomic and Political Stability on Nuclear Power Plant Construction Duration: Development and Application of the MAPSS Index
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.14311/CEJ.2026.01.0001Keywords:
Nuclear Power Plant, Construction Duration, Macroeconomic Stability, Political Stability, Risk, MAPSS, Project DelayAbstract
This study examines the impact of a country’s macroeconomic and political stability on the construction duration of nuclear power plant (NPP) projects. Despite extensive research into technical and managerial causes of delays, the role of national stability remains underexplored. This research develops the Macroeconomic and Political Stability Score (MAPSS), a composite risk assessment index designed to quantify national-level risks affecting project delivery. A stratified sample of 96 NPP projects was analysed using Pearson correlation, Welch’s t-tests, and multiple linear regression to evaluate the relationship between key economic indicators, political events, and construction timelines. The results show that national economic crises, international crises, government collapses, and armed conflicts are significantly associated with extended construction durations, whereas factors such as inflation and international sanctions showed no meaningful effect. The MAPSS index demonstrated a statistically significant correlation with project duration (r = −0.390, p < 0.001), confirming its practical value for early-stage risk assessment. The findings underscore that external macroeconomic and political factors are critical determinants of nuclear project delivery. This research offers a novel framework to support policymakers, investors, and planners in evaluating stability-related risks prior to committing to nuclear infrastructure investments.
Received: 10.07.2025
Received in revised form: 28.01.2026
Accepted: 08.04.2026
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