North America thinking big on small reactors

摘要

Steps to revolutionise the adoption of micro reactors and small modular reactors (SMR) in North America are progressing at an increasingly rapid pace. Economic forces in both Canada and the United States, combined with the intensifying objective of cutting carbon dioxide emissions, are making nuclear power from next-generation reactors a viable, near-term energy alternative. Canada is leading the effort to review, license, and deploy micro and small modular reactors. Establishing a clear strategic path has been the hallmark of the Canadian effort to explore nuclear energy as a zero-carbon alternative. Key to the Canadian government's effort is a transparent approach, exemplified by the publication of a national SMR roadmap and proactive relationship-building with business leaders, nuclear industry experts, utility companies, and local communities and the indigenous groups that live within them.