Small Nuclear Reactors may Help in the Progress of Clean Energy Transformation

By Shubhendra Anand , 29 April, 2025

A transformation is occurring globally in the pattern of energy sources with the rise of small nuclear reactors (SMRs) as the solution to clean, secure, and cost-effective energy. These power-efficient and small-sized reactors are becoming popular globally due to an increasing appetite for carbon-copy energy systems.

Among the several benefits associated with SMRs, these reactors can be assembled in factories and delivered to locations to be erected, thereby cutting the time and cost of building. Additionally, SMRs are less inclined to accidents since they are designed and built using passive systems. In addition, SMRs have a wide range of potential applications, including electricity generation, industrial usage, and district heating.

Many nations are willing to advance and invest in SMR technology. The United States, for instance, has licensed a few SMR designs, and companies like NuScale and Westinghouse are moving forward with their plans. China has three SMRs in operation, and they are planning more. In Russia, the world's first floating nuclear power station started commercial operations generating electricity from two 35 MW(e) SMRs.

In the midst of these global developments, it can be expected that as the world moves towards lower emissions, SMR technology will be widely adopted as it will help produce clean, efficient, and scalable power sources. Modular configuration safety enhancements and their small-size SMRs are a valid option for nations that aim to decarbonize their economies while addressing the rising energy demand. With many experts projecting a burgeoning market, SMRs could become a key energy carrier in the global economy.

Figure provides insights on nuclear energy generation by 2050