SMR siting for the electricity system management

Abstract

Small modular reactor (SMR) is an emerging clean technology that is expected to help decarbonize power systems and mitigate climate change in the future. However, previous SMR siting methods were unable to take the multi-complexities of the power system into account. To deal with such a shortage, a factorial optimization-based SMR siting (FOSS) model is developed in this study. The main advantage of the developed FOSS model is its capability of comprehensively examining the SMR siting issue within a general electricity-system framework under multi-complexities. The optimized SMR siting schemes and power-systems transition plans can be then provided. The developed approach was applied to the power systems in Saskatchewan, Canada. The results indicate that replacing conventional coal-fired plants with SMRs can be a beneficial alternative to promote GHG mitigation and meet the growing power demand. The SMR deployment would enable a transition to a low-carbon power system in Saskatchewan with at least 65.6% emissions reduction by 2045 from 2018 level. Factorial and scenario-based analysis can provide policy makers with reference points to formulate specific decarbonization policies of power systems. The FOSS model can be adapted for electricity systems in different countries and this research provides a promising way to promote a transition towards long-term sustainability in global energy systems.