Present limitations of nuclear core materials in light water reactors (LWRs) have severe economic consequences. Estimates of the economic impact of (a) fuel-related power maneuvering restrictions, (b) extending the burnup of fuel, (c) extending the life of boiling water reactor (BWR) control rods, and (d) increasing the exposure limits on BWR fuel channels have been made. The primary basis for these estimates is the actual operating experience of typical LWRs, the data being obtained in a poll in which 88% of the U.S. installed capacity responded. The greatest economic improvements can be obtained by reducing capacity factor losses due to fuel-related maneuvering restrictions (currently costing utilities ∼$170 million per year) and from increases in fuel burnup (an increase to 45 GWd/ton results in a savings of $800 million per year by 1995). The economic impact of increases in the life of BWR control rods and of fuel channels is lower but still significant. An increase in BWR control rod life of 1.6 years (to 8 years total) results in a 1990 savings rate of $41 million per year, while an increase in fuel channel life of 4 years (to 8 years total) results in a 1990 savings rate of $25 million per year.