Towards cleaner energy transition: Small modular reactors as a feasible revolutionary step in the economics of nuclear energy

Towards cleaner energy transition: Small modular reactors as a feasible revolutionary step in the economics of nuclear energy

Článek WoS

This paper explores the evolving landscape of nuclear energy, focusing on the development and potential of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as part of the global transition towards more sustainable, secure, and reliable energy systems. With growing environmental concerns over traditional energy sources such as coal and hydrocarbons, and the increasing political emphasis on reducing CO2 emissions, there is a clear shift toward renewable and nuclear energy integration. However, the current limitations of renewable energy, both technologically and economically, call for a stable energy foundation, for which nuclear power, particularly SMRs, presents a promising solution. SMRs offer several advantages over traditional large-scale nuclear plants, including modularity, lower construction costs, faster deployment, and inherent safety features such as passive safety systems. The paper discusses the economic and technological benefits of SMRs, including lower capital investment, shorter construction timelines, and the ability to operate in smaller or remote regions. Furthermore, SMRs are seen as a solution to enhancing energy security, as their distributed nature makes energy systems less vulnerable to disruptions. While the technology remains in its early stages, SMRs are poised to play a crucial role in addressing global energy challenges, providing climate-neutral electricity, and supporting national energy policies. The paper concludes by highlighting the importance of regulatory frameworks and financing mechanisms for the successful deployment of SMRs, underscoring their alignment with long-term sustainable development goals.

This paper explores the evolving landscape of nuclear energy, focusing on the development and potential of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as part of the global transition towards more sustainable, secure, and reliable energy systems. With growing environmental concerns over traditional energy sources such as coal and hydrocarbons, and the increasing political emphasis on reducing CO2 emissions, there is a clear shift toward renewable and nuclear energy integration. However, the current limitations of renewable energy, both technologically and economically, call for a stable energy foundation, for which nuclear power, particularly SMRs, presents a promising solution. SMRs offer several advantages over traditional large-scale nuclear plants, including modularity, lower construction costs, faster deployment, and inherent safety features such as passive safety systems. The paper discusses the economic and technological benefits of SMRs, including lower capital investment, shorter construction timelines, and the ability to operate in smaller or remote regions. Furthermore, SMRs are seen as a solution to enhancing energy security, as their distributed nature makes energy systems less vulnerable to disruptions. While the technology remains in its early stages, SMRs are poised to play a crucial role in addressing global energy challenges, providing climate-neutral electricity, and supporting national energy policies. The paper concludes by highlighting the importance of regulatory frameworks and financing mechanisms for the successful deployment of SMRs, underscoring their alignment with long-term sustainable development goals.

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs); Nuclear Energy; Energy Transition; Energy Security; Sustainable Development

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs); Nuclear Energy; Energy Transition; Energy Security; Sustainable Development

BALCERZAK, A.; IGLIŃSKI, B.; UDDIN, G.; DUTTA, A.; PIETRZAK, M.

30.03.2025

INST ECONOMIC RESEARCH-POLAND

OLSZTYN

1689-765X

Equilibrium

20

1

Polská republika

35

47

13

https://journals.economic-research.pl/eq/article/view/3602/2430