Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)

Small Modular Reactors Latest News

The Finance Minister recently announced a ₹20,000 crore ‘Nuclear Energy Mission’ to develop indigenous Small Modular Reactors (SMR).

About Small Modular Reactors 

• SMRs are defined as small nuclear reactors with a maximum output of 300 Megawatt electric (MWe) and can produce 7.2 million kWh per day.
• By comparison, large-size nuclear power plants have an output of over 1,000 MWe and can produce 24 million kWh per day. 
• 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.

Small Modular Reactors Advantages

• Relatively small physical footprints;
• Reduced capital investment;
• Can be factory-built, unlike the conventional nuclear reactors that are built on-site;
• Ability to be sited in locations not possible for larger nuclear plants;
• Provisions for incremental power additions;
• It also offers distinct safeguards, security, and non-proliferation advantages.
• They are well suited to be integrated into energy hubs in combination with other sources of energy.
• They are adapted to supply electricity and additionally capable of supplying heat for industrial applications, district heating, as well as for the production of hydrogen.

Small Modular Reactors FAQs

Q1. Where are small modular reactors used?

Ans. SMRs can be used for power generation, process heat, desalination, or other industrial uses.

Q2. What are the benefits of small modular reactors?

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Ans. SMRs offer enhanced safety, lower costs, faster deployment, scalability, reduced environmental impact, and flexibility for diverse applications.

Q3. What is the working principle of SMR?

Ans. SMRs nuclear fission reactions to generate heat that can be used directly or for generating electricity.

Source: TH