SMALL
NUCLEAR MODULATORS – SCI & TECH
News:
Can small modular nuclear
reactors help India achieve net-zero?
What
is in the news?
● Recently,
some environmental studies suggest that small modular reactors will play an
important role in decarbonisation.
What
are small modular reactors?
Small modular reactors (SMRs) are advanced nuclear
reactors that have a power capacity of up to 300 MW(e) per unit, which is about
one-third of the generating capacity of traditional nuclear power reactors.
SMRs, which can produce a large amount of low-carbon electricity, are:
● Small
– physically a fraction of the size of a conventional nuclear power reactor.
● Modular
– making it possible for systems and components to be factory-assembled and
transported as a unit to a location for installation.
● Reactors
– harnessing nuclear fission to generate heat to produce energy.
Advantages:
1. Reliable Low-carbon
Electricity Source:
● As
the demand for electricity is projected to surge by 80-150% by 2050, SMRs could
provide a reliable 24/7 low-carbon electricity source that complements
intermittent renewables.
● This
is crucial for achieving grid reliability and reducing costs in decarbonised
electricity systems.
2. Minimized
Land Acquisition Challenges:
● SMRs
generate less spent nuclear fuel and can be safely operated in existing
brownfield sites, minimizing land acquisition challenges.
● SMRs
are also simpler to design and manufacture, with potential for cost reduction
through serial manufacturing.
3. Alternatives
to Critical Minerals:
● The
transition to clean energy requires Critical Minerals
for technologies like lithium-ion batteries, leading to concerns about
geopolitical risks and environmental impacts.
● SMRs
offer an alternative, as they require low-enriched uranium, which is more
widely distributed than critical minerals.
4. Integration
with India's Energy Strategy:
● For
India, which aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2070, SMRs can play a
pivotal role. As coal-based thermal power plants and variable renewable energy
sources contribute significantly to the energy mix, SMRs can enhance energy
security and grid stability.
5. Enhanced
Safety:
● SMRs
feature lower core damage frequency and radioactive contamination risks
compared to conventional NPPs.
6. Passive
Safety Features:
● Simpler
design and passive safety measures reduce the potential for uncontrolled
radioactive releases.
7. Reduced
Spent Fuel Storage:
● SMRs
produce less spent nuclear fuel, easing storage concerns.
8. Brownfield
Sites Utilization:
● SMRs
can repurpose existing infrastructure, minimizing land acquisition and
displacement issues.
9. Zoning
requirements:
● SMRs
can be safely installed and operated at several brownfield sites that may not
meet the more stringent zoning requirements for conventional NPPs.
Challenges:
1. Regulatory
Framework: Establishing efficient and harmonized regulatory frameworks for
SMRs across different jurisdictions remains a challenge.
2. Public
Perception: Overcoming public concerns related to nuclear energy, safety,
and waste management is crucial for widespread SMR acceptance.
3. Capital
Investment: While potential cost savings are anticipated, initial capital
investment for SMR development and deployment may be significant.
4. Fuel Supply:
Ensuring a sustainable and reliable supply of fuel, such as enriched uranium,
is essential for the continuous operation of SMRs.
Conclusion:
● SMRs
offer promise in India's journey towards decarbonization and net-zero
emissions.
● Their
enhanced safety features, compatibility with existing infrastructure, and
potential for private sector investments make them an attractive option.
● However,
efficient regulatory frameworks, collaboration among nations, and public
awareness are essential to harness SMRs' benefits and contribute to a
sustainable energy future.