Microreactors:

Small modular reactors (SMRs):

<aside> ✋🏽 Small modular reactors (SMRs) are advanced nuclear reactors that have a power capacity of up to 300 MW(e) per unit.

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• The SMR is relatively a nascent concept, but they can make nuclear energy more scalable and flexible.
• The global market for SMRs is expected to be $300 billion a year by 2040.
• SMRs can be sited on locations not suitable for larger nuclear power plants, Affordable.
• SMRs offer savings in cost and construction time, and they can be deployed incrementally to match increasing energy demand.
• Sustainable Development: It can play a key role in the clean energy transition, while also helping countries address the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• Reduced fuel requirements: SMRs have reduced fuel requirements. Power plants based on SMRs may require less frequent refueling, every 3 to 7 years, in comparison to between 1 and 2 years for conventional plants. Some SMRs are designed to operate for up to 30 years without refueling.
• Concerns- Nuclear waste generation; cost more than large reactors for each unit (megawatt) of generation capacity; Lack of regulations. However, this must be advanced by enhanced and informed licensing that recognizes the advantages of the SMR safety design, fabrication quality, reduced public risk, and deployment flexibility.
• SMRs hold the promise for successful commercial deployment by offering enhanced safety, security, and flexibility for all applications. IAEA has established the Platform on SMRs and their Applications, a one-stop shop for countries to coordinate support related to all aspects of SMR development.