On October 12, 2021, the President of the Republic unveiled a major initiative with a five-year investment plan of 30 billion euros, the famous France 2030 plan, to stimulate industry and future technologies in France. At the time, it envisioned the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). In this article, we will delve into the subject to understand what an SMR is, how it works, and what its advantages are compared to the French EPR.
The Small Modular Reactors, or small modular nuclear reactors for those who prefer French, are designed to produce electricity and heat in remote locations or to support existing electricity grids. Their objective is not to replace but to complement previous generation nuclear power plants.
SMRs: how Do They Work?
SMRs operate on the same principle as large third-generation nuclear reactors: nuclear fission. This is a process where atomic nuclei are split into two smaller pieces, releasing a significant amount of energy in the form of heat. In an SMR, everything occurs within its reactor core. Nuclear fuel, typically uranium, is bombarded by neutrons, which generates a substantial amount of heat. This heat is then used to produce steam, which turns a turbine connected to an electric generator. Thus, electricity is produced through nuclear fission.
What are the Advantages of SMRs in France Compared to EPRs?
We do not intend to deny the relevance of EPRs, which will play an increasingly important role in the future. Furthermore, as of the writing of this article, EDF’s board of directors unreservedly approved the authorization request for the creation of new EPR reactors, which were expressly desired by Emmanuel Macron to be implemented in Normandy.
Size: a Key Advantage for SMRs
To clarify: unlike the behemoths of conventional nuclear power plants, SMRs are modular. As their name suggests, they can be constructed in multiple modules, which provides them with great flexibility and allows them to adapt to various energy needs. Their electrical output is less than 300 MW, significantly less than EPRs, which are designed to produce several thousand MW. SMRs can therefore be installed more easily across the country and serve as a complementary or backup energy source.
Nuclear Power Plants for Enhanced Safety
One of the most frequent criticisms leveled against nuclear power concerns the safety of facilities. SMRs utilize advanced technologies to monitor and regulate the reactor, which significantly reduces the risk of accidents. The reactor proposed by Otrera, for example, even features a fourth safety barrier. Furthermore, they are highly autonomous and can cool down in an emergency without requiring human intervention or external power. Finally, many specialists explain that they are generally robust against natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis.
Affordable Electricity
SMRs are significantly more cost-effective than conventional nuclear power plants. They cost less to build and operate, particularly due to their small size. Furthermore, they can be mass-produced in factories, which lowers construction and maintenance costs. They also enable the production of energy at a competitive price compared to other sources such as coal, natural gas, and even renewable energies. And, as an added bonus, they can be used to produce hydrogen, which is becoming increasingly valued as a clean fuel.
In summary, Small Modular Reactors represent a true revolution in the field of nuclear energy. Their modularity, safety, economies of scale, and versatility make them a promising technology for the future. Of course, it is essential to continue serious debate and study to evaluate and mitigate the potential risks associated with their use, and to ensure they are operated safely and responsibly.
