SMALL NUCLEAR MODULAR REACTORS
1. Context
The world’s quest to decarbonize itself is guided, among other things, by the UN Sustainable Development Goal 7: “to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all”. Since the world still depends on fossil fuels for 82% of its energy supply, decarbonising the power sector is critical; the share of electricity in final energy consumption will also increase by 80%-150% by 2050. The recent uptick in coal consumption in Europe, despite the increase in solar and wind power, suggests that reliable, 24/7 low-carbon electricity resources are critical to ensure the deep decarbonization of power generation, along with grid stability and energy security. Small modular reactors a type of nuclear reactor can be helpful to India in this regard.
2. Small Modular Reactors (SMR)
Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are a type of nuclear reactor design that offers a more compact and scalable alternative to traditional large-scale nuclear power plants. These reactors are characterized by their smaller size, enhanced safety features, and potential for more flexible deployment. Here are some key features and aspects of Small Modular Reactors:
- Size and Scalability: SMRs are designed to be much smaller in size compared to conventional nuclear reactors. Their compact nature allows for easier manufacturing, transport, and installation. Additionally, SMRs can be built in a modular fashion, with multiple units deployed together, which offers flexibility in capacity planning and expansion.
- Enhanced Safety: Many SMR designs incorporate advanced safety features that reduce the likelihood of accidents and mitigate potential consequences. Passive safety systems and inherent design characteristics can make SMRs more resilient in the face of unexpected events.
- Reduced Environmental Footprint: The smaller size and modular construction of SMRs can lead to a reduced environmental impact in terms of land use, resource consumption, and waste generation. This can be particularly advantageous in regions with limited space or where environmental concerns are paramount.
- Flexible Deployment: SMRs can be deployed in a wider range of locations compared to traditional large reactors. They can serve diverse purposes, including providing power to remote communities, supporting industrial processes, and complementing renewable energy sources.
- Standardization and Mass Production: SMR designs often emphasize standardization and simplified manufacturing processes, which could potentially lead to cost savings through mass production and economies of scale.
Image Source: The Hindu
3. Decarbonisation Challenges
- Transition Challenges: Moving from coal-fired power to clean energy has hurdles. Policymakers agree solar/wind alone won't suffice for affordable energy.
- Role of Firm Power: Clean energy grids benefit from a stable power source. Adding one firm power tech cuts costs and boosts reliability.
- Critical Minerals Demand: Clean energy tech needs minerals like lithium, cobalt, etc. Demand might rise 3.5x by 2030, per IEA.
- Global Challenges: Meeting mineral demand means new mines, especially in China, Indonesia, Africa, and South America. The rapid expansion raises environmental and social concerns.
- Concentrated Production: Few nations control most mineral production/processing. Geopolitical risks and supply control emerge.
Image Source: The Hindu
4. Nuclear Power's Role in Net-Zero Goals:
- NPPs contribute 10% of global electricity, curbing 180 billion cubic meters of natural gas demand and 1.5 billion tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.
- Ensuring Net-Zero Transition: Reduced nuclear power may hinder cost-effective progress towards net-zero emissions.
5. Advantages of Nuclear Power:
- Reliable Power Generation: NPPs provide constant power, outperforming variable renewable sources like solar and wind.
- Efficient Land Use: NPPs need less land and offer lower grid integration costs compared to renewables.
- Co-Benefits: Nuclear power creates high-skill jobs in technology, manufacturing, and operations.
6. Advantages of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs):
- Enhanced Safety: SMRs have lower core damage frequency and radioactive contamination risk compared to conventional NPPs. Passive safety features reduce the potential for uncontrolled radioactive releases.
- Seismic Isolation: SMRs incorporate improved seismic isolation for heightened safety during accidents.
- Spent Fuel Management: SMRs generate less spent nuclear fuel, reducing storage needs.
- Brownfield Sites: SMRs can be safely placed on brownfield sites with less stringent zoning requirements.
- Community Engagement: Power-plant organizations can engage communities, as seen in Kudankulam, Tamil Nadu.
- Coal-to-Nuclear Transition: Deploying SMRs at existing thermal plant sites advances net-zero goals and energy security.
7. Supply and Manufacturing:
- Low-Enriched Uranium: SMRs typically use low-enriched uranium, available from countries with uranium mines and enrichment facilities adhering to international standards.
- Factory Manufacturing: SMRs are factory-built and assembled on-site, lowering risks of time and cost overruns.
- Cost Efficiency: Serial manufacturing reduces costs, streamlines regulatory approvals, and fosters experiential learning.
8. Economic Viability:
- Long-Term Operation: SMRs operate for over 40 years, offering cost-effective electricity. Costs are projected to decrease significantly after 2035.
- U.S.-India Collaboration: SMRs included in the U.S.-India statement for potential benefits, with cost reduction anticipated through reputed manufacturers.
9. Efficient Regulatory Regime:
- Regulaorty Efficiency Needed: Like civil aviation, stringent and efficient regulations are vital for SMR's role in decarbonization.
- Global Cooperation: Countries embracing nuclear energy should collaborate with regulators and the IAEA to harmonize and expedite approvals for standard SMR designs.
10. Integration with National Grid:
- Energy Capacity Targets: India's projection: Coal-based power 259,000 MW, VRE 486,000 MW by 2032.
- Energy Storage Needs: Integrating VRE requires 47,000 MW/236 GWh from batteries and 27,000 MW from hydro facilities.
- Nuclear Expansion: Nuclear power pivotal for India's net-zero by 2070; private sector investment essential.
11. Legal and Regulatory Changes:
- Amending Atomic Energy Act: Allow private sector SMR setup while ensuring nuclear fuel and waste control by the government.
- Establish an Independent Regulatory Board: Law required for a capable regulatory body overseeing nuclear power stages.
- Security and Ownership: Government control over SMR security; private operation under government oversight.
- Public Perception: Department of Atomic Energy should enhance public awareness through transparent environmental and health data dissemination.
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For Prelims: Nuclear Energy, Small Modular Reactors (SMR), Decarbonisation, International Energy Agency (IEA), lithium, cobalt, National Grid, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and Co2 emissions.
For Mains: 1. Discuss the potential of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in India's journey towards decarbonizing its energy sector. Examine their advantages over conventional nuclear power plants and other renewable sources. (250 Words).
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Previous year Question1. In India, why are some nuclear reactors kept under "IAEA Safeguards" while others are not? (UPSC 2020)
A. Some use uranium and others use thorium
B. Some use imported uranium and others use domestic supplies
C. Some are operated by foreign enterprises and others are operated by domestic enterprises
D. Some are State-owned and others are privately-owned
Answer: B
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Source: The Hindu
