Small Modular Reactors Are 'Hot'

摘要

One of the "hottest" topics being discussed in the US nuclear industry is the viability of deploying small modular reactors (SMR), those under 300 MW, into the nuclear fleet to help address environmental concerns while keeping up with the demand for power. The Department of Energy (DOE) has a goal to decrease 28% of greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 and it expects that the goal can be met with the help of small modular reactors. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) established the Advanced Reactor Program in 2009 to focus on new licensing technologies. NRC is studying several pre-application reviews to identify possible technical issues, such as safety, security and emergency planning. Utilities may have more interest in SMRs once the NRC gains more expertise and the uncertainty of deploying these reactors in the US can be addressed.