Design and technology development for small modular reactors – Safety expectations, prospects and impediments of their deployment

The IAEA has seen a significant increase in participation of Member States and their expertise in the IAEA program for small and medium-sized reactors (SMRs) technology development. There are high-level of interest in SMR development and deployment in technology holders and technology user's countries. The trend in development has been towards design certification of small modular reactors, which are defined as advanced SMRs that produce electric power up to 300 MW(e), designed to be built in factories and shipped to utilities for installation as demand arises. The current driving forces of SMR development are, among others: fulfilling the need for flexible power generation for a wider range of users and applications; replacing the aging fossil-fired units; enhancing safety performance through inherent and passive safety features; offering better economic affordability; suitability for cogeneration and non-electric applications, options for remote areas and hybrid energy systems of nuclear with renewable. The majority of the near-term deployment advanced SMRs is the integrated pressurized water reactors (iPWR). Several countries are pioneering in the development and application of transportable nuclear power plants (TNPP), including floating and marine-based SMRs. The innovative features of advanced SMRs that converge into safer, reliable and affordable plant have been discussed. Multiple module plant distinct concepts of operations, licensing process, legal and regulatory framework are the main issues for the SMRs deployment and are delineated. For newcomer countries, however, one of the challenges is how to reconcile the competitiveness issue between advanced SMR designs and potential energy alternatives including large reactors with proven technology. The paper focuses on some impediments in the deployment of such novel designs that need to be resolved through testing and qualification of components and equipment, Research and Development (R&D), training and international collaboration.