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Description
The global efforts towards sustainable and resilient energy solutions have fueled interest in Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as transformative elements in the nuclear energy landscape. This paper discusses the need for accelerating SMR deployment, emphasizing collaborative approaches involving stakeholders such as vendors, Owner/Operators, and governments. Key considerations include economic benefits, regulatory framework development, and collaborative initiatives to advance SMR technology. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) plays a crucial role in facilitating global collaboration on SMRs through two interconnected mechanisms: the Nuclear Harmonization and Standardization Initiative (NHSI) and the SMR Platform. All those elements are essential for realizing the full potential of SMRs in building a sustainable energy future.
Recognizing the potential economic advantages, this paper highlights the need for a shortened timeline for the deployment of SMRs, especially in Phase 2 of the IAEA Milestone Approach, including early engagement of vendors in this process. The paper also describes incentives for vendors, Owner/Operators, and governments, including job creation, investments, expanding market presence, ensuring energy security, and carbon emission reduction goals. At the same time, the IAEA serves as a cornerstone in ensuring a harmonized, monitored, and well-educated landscape for SMR deployment. Hence, through strategic collaborations, early engagement, and regulatory streamlining, the trajectory toward global SMR deployment is illuminated and reinforced against potential impediments.
As the world stands on the brink of a possible new nuclear renaissance, the joint effort from various stakeholders promises not only economic prosperity but also a resilient, low-carbon energy landscape. This shared vision of prosperity through the accelerated deployment of SMRs necessitates concerted and continuous efforts to pave the way for a promising and sustainable future in nuclear energy.
| Country OR International Organization | International Atomic Energy Organization |
|---|---|
| Email address | m.ozerina@iaea.org |
| Confirm that the work is original and has not been published anywhere else | yes |
