The role of small modular reactors (SMRs) in achieving Net-Zero emissions by an approach to climate actions

Abstract

As the energy sector is a major driver of atmospheric change, the solution to reduce CO₂ emissions from the combustion of fossil fuels, including oil and coal, is sought in nuclear energy. In this study, we apply the inherent low-carbon emission characteristics of small modular reactors (SMRs) to climate change mitigation. Modeling using the system dynamics (SD) method, a complexity analysis algorithm, shows that the climate mitigation effect in the context of SMR deployment shows a gradual and progressive trajectory over time, which is in contrast to other technologies where the benefits appear particularly abruptly after a certain operational threshold (e.g., 90 months of operation).

The inherent uncertainty associated with carbon-related variables in the Net-Zero World scenario increases variability, as evidenced by the higher standard deviation, where the standard deviation for the Net-Zero World is over 5.0, while that for SMRs is below 1.0. As a result, a society with net-zero carbon emissions must consider significant uncertainties arising from a variety of factors. Small nuclear reactors have the potential to provide a stable and consistent energy supply even under adverse weather conditions, thereby enhancing energy security and grid resilience.