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Nuclear energy companies have been focusing on microreactors, which are smaller, safer, and more cost-effective, to advance decarbonization efforts. These compact reactors are gaining popularity due to their potential to provide cleaner energy and support various industries.

The past year marked significant progress for nuclear energy, with advancements in U.S. deployment targets, reactor restarts, and new projects. Globally, climate targets have fueled a growing interest in nuclear energy as countries pursue greener energy alternatives. While Europe has lagged behind the U.S. in nuclear development, nations like Romania, France, and Bulgaria have increased investments and acquired nuclear projects.

Nuclear reactors serve diverse industries, including power generation, oil production, manufacturing, and desalination, as well as research facilities and naval propulsion systems. Everyday items, such as smoke detectors and watches, also utilize small amounts of radioactive material.

In recent years, companies have prioritized reducing reactor sizes to increase zero-carbon energy production and reduce reliance on batteries. These smaller reactors, comparable in size to shipping containers, function as efficient, long-lasting power sources.

Why Microreactors Are the Future

Microreactors are revolutionizing nuclear energy with their reliability, cost-effectiveness, and versatility. They offer clean energy without requiring refueling for years and feature passive safety systems that minimize radioactive risks.

These reactors are factory-built and installed in modules, significantly lowering construction costs. They can power a range of applications, such as water desalination, district heating, military bases, and remote communities. Additionally, microreactors operate autonomously, reducing the need for on-site staff and labor expenses.

Replacing traditional gas and diesel generators, which are widely used in industries like agriculture, construction, healthcare, and transportation, is a primary goal. Microreactors offer a sustainable alternative, helping these sectors cut carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.

Mining operations also benefit from microreactors, as they currently rely heavily on diesel for excavation. Microreactors provide a cleaner and cost-effective energy source with extended performance durations. Companies like Westinghouse Nuclear are leading this shift, developing the eVinci microreactor with an output of 5 megawatts of electricity for over eight years without refueling. This technology is expected to power data centers, universities, industrial facilities, and hydrogen production.

Jon Ball, head of Westinghouse Nuclear’s eVinci program, noted: “The interest has expanded significantly as industries seek to decarbonize difficult-to-reach sectors, including remote communities reliant on expensive diesel.”

Challenges to Mainstream Nuclear Adoption

Despite advancements, nuclear energy faces opposition due to concerns over radioactive waste, safety risks, and potential environmental harm. Improper waste disposal raises fears of contamination affecting water and land resources. Past nuclear disasters, such as Chernobyl and Fukushima, have fueled public resistance to new projects.

Nuclear weapons proliferation remains a significant concern, heightening geopolitical tensions. Additionally, uranium mining poses health risks, with miners facing increased rates of lung cancer.

High construction costs are another barrier to broader nuclear adoption. While microreactors are cheaper than traditional reactors, they still require substantial investment. The relatively undeveloped market for microreactors and current economic uncertainties further complicate financing efforts.

Although challenges persist, microreactors represent a promising step forward for clean energy. Their scalability, safety, and efficiency position them as a critical innovation in the fight against climate change.