IAEA activities on Mmall and Medium Reactors: Harmonization of energy demand and supply in developing countries

Abstract

Small and Medium Reactors (SMRs) are attractive in developing countries because of their unique features such as: better suitability for smaller electric grids, lower investment cost, smaller components and equipment to facilitate modularization, etc. Furthermore, other factors induced by SMR implementation, such as technical transfer promotion, domestic infrastructure improvement, stabilization of energy cost, and environmental protection put SMRs into a more favorable position. From the nuclear plant suppliers, many SMR designs are available for a wide range of applications. A questionnaire study, which the IAEA conducted in 1996, confirmed that several countries are interested in SMRs and that some SMRs are already in the detailed design stage. A projection shows that the total nuclear capacity would increase in all regions that consist mainly of developing countries in the near future. For a timely and broad implementation of SMRs, information exchange and cooperation are indispensable between nuclear suppliers and buyers. The IAEA continues to play a role in encouraging and assisting development and practical application of SMRs for harmonization of energy demand and supply in developing countries.