Smaller nuclear technologies offer a significant opportunity for the
widespread deployment of nuclear technologies globally. While the current
business model of large reactors is economically unattractive in many
parts of the world due to lengthy testing and licensing, field
construction, large scale size, or grid stability, small reactor
technologies such as microreactors can overcome many of these obstacles.
These smaller machines come with reduced costs and time for design and
engineering, and they offer characteristics such as improved passive
safety. Current estimates suggest that microreactors can meet cost targets
for both heat and electricity, but altering characteristics to fit various
market needs may incur additional costs. Managing the costs of a
microreactor while meeting the needs of the target market will be integral
in the wide global deployment of microreactor technologies.
