11 - Licensing of small modular reactors (SMRs)

Abstract

The licensing and deployment of any small modular reactor (SMR) are dependent on whether (a) there is a significant market demand for new nuclear power, (b) SMR technology can be developed in a timely and cost-effective manner to meet the demand, and (c) the SMR technology can be licensed effectively. As described in this handbook, enhanced safety, improved security, and flexibility in siting and application are all factors that have created a market demand. Assuming a market demand for SMRs and an ability to finance, licensing becomes the next risk factor. Effective licensing is dependent, in part, on the maturity of the SMR technology. New and unproven nuclear technologies might present a challenge to effective licensing. Accordingly, near-term licensing and deployment of SMRs are focused on the proven light water reactor (LWR) technology. However as noted in Part Two, in recent years, non-LWR SMR advanced nuclear technologies have emerged, but none of these designs are sufficiently developed for licensing reviews. Some studies suggest that these non-LWR advanced designs should present an opportunity for a more performance-based, risk-informed licensing approach. The international nuclear energy community has established frameworks to identify and develop a more effective licensing approach and standards for these advanced SMR designs.