A comprehensive assessment of gen-IV small modular reactors: Challenges and opportunities

Abstract

Generation-IV Small Modular Reactors (GEN-IV SMRs) with power levels between 10 and 300 MWe have the potential to transform the nuclear energy landscape by providing safer and more efficient alternatives to traditional nuclear power plants (NPPs). While there is great potential for these reactors, challenges are found in each aspect of their development. The current status of active, land-based Generation-IV Small Modular Reactor projects, falling under the categories Very-High Temperature Reactor (VHTR), Gas-cooled Fast Reactor (GFR), Sodium-cooled Fast Reactor (SFR), Lead-cooled Fast Reactor (LFR), and Molten Salt Reactor (MSR), is presented. The challenges and opportunities applying to Gen-IV SMRs in the context of national and international regulations and nuclear safety, security, and safeguards are discussed. An analysis of the complex interdependence between private finance, government support, supply chains, technological development, and international competition emphasizes the importance of government decision-making. Challenges and opportunities regarding public trust finds Gen-IV SMRs have unique opportunities. A synthesis of this research is given in the discussion, and conclusions are provided.