Small and Medium Nuclear Reactors: Is Our Future Downsizing? Highlights

Most of the 40-odd nuclear reactors under construction in the world are rated at more than one Gigawatt of electrical capacity, but is bigger necessarily better? Utilities have historically clamored for large reactors in order to capture economies of scale. But now the economics look different: buying a nuclear reactor involves betting billions of dollars, and proliferation considerations and the potential for a booming international market on are pushing interest in small, possibly modular reactors. Countries with nascent grids and international utilities who like the idea of "factory-produced," modular unites are leading the drive to get these built. The US is getting left behind, while new reactor design certifications are encumbered in long porcesses, and American utilities are opting to stick with the large reactors they know.
The panel addressed and discussed questions about how technology and regulations will shape the markets for small nuclear reactors in the US and abroad. Is a revolution coming? Will the US help lead it, or will it follow international example? If the US is to become a leader in small nuclear reactor development and deployment, how will we do it? Are small to medium sized reactors (SMRs) going to the be the solution for rapid deployment of carbon-free electricity.