21 - Small modular reactors (SMRs): The case of the United States of America

Abstract

This chapter presents an overview of the research and development (R&D) underway in the United States on small modular reactors (SMRs) including all reactor technologies. The responsibility for conducting SMR R&D within the US government is that of the US Department of Energy’s Office of Nuclear Energy (DOE-NE). DOE-NE’s program for supporting the near-term deployment of the light water-cooled SMRs (LW-SMRs) has been the “SMR Licensing Technical Support” (LTS) program, which spanned the FY2012-FY2017 time frame and is now essentially complete. Recent accomplishments from the LTS program are highlighted, including summaries of key design features for both the NuScale and Holtec-160 LW-SMRs. DOE-NE’s programs, initiatives, and approach, which have included a targeted and cooperative “public-private” focus via its Gateway for Accelerated Innovation in Nuclear (GAIN) program and recent funding opportunity announcement, are summarized. Most of this R&D centers on advanced SMRs using coolants other than water. DOE-NE’s initial effort in establishing an R&D program to support the development and demonstration of a “microreactor” for commercial and/or defense applications is briefly discussed. Final comments are offered as to the direction and content of future A-SMR R&D in the United States.