Is SNPP Development a Fashion or an Essential Necessity? [Comment on the Article by V.O. Kindra, I.A. Maksimov, I.I. Komarov, S.K. Osipov, and O.V. Zlyvko “Small Power Nuclear Plants: Technical Level and Prospects for Commercialization (Review)”]

Abstract

This report examines the issue of economic feasibility of constructing small nuclear power plants (SNPPs). The preparation of this commentary is due to a number of controversial theses presented in the article by V.O. Kindra, I.A. Maksimov, I.I. Komarov, S.K. Osipov, and O.V. Zlyvko “Small-Power Nuclear Power Plants: Technical Level and Prospects for Commercialization (Review)”, published in the journal Teploenergetika no. 4, 2024. The article notes the need to use new circuit solutions and working fluids for SNPPs. However, an analysis of the prerequisites for the creation of SNPPs allows for the conclusion that the use of complex thermal cycle circuits for such plants is inappropriate. The article rightly notes that SNPPs can only be competitive in remote areas that are difficult to access for the import of fossil fuels. But the inaccessibility of the territories is a determining and largely limiting factor for the construction and operation of SNPPs themselves on these sites.