Expert Q&A: small modular reactors

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) have the potential not only to play a key role in the UK’s Net Zero ambitions, but also to become a new export sector and assist countries around the world transition to low-carbon energy. The Engineer caught up with some key figures from the UKSMR consortium and the nuclear industry to find out more.

Matthew Blake: Chief Engineer – Small Modular Reactors, Rolls-Royce Plc

Tom Greatrex: Chief Executive, Nuclear Industry Association

Peter Sell: Chief Design Engineer  - UKSMR, Atkins

Peter Sell: New nuclear power is vital in the development of infrastructure for meeting the UK and global Net Zero commitments. It needs to be part of a mix of solutions, including renewable sources, to meet our Net Zero requirements. New nuclear has several components which can be part of the solution, including large nuclear (e.g. Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C) and Small Modular Reactors (e.g. UK SMR).  Both large nuclear power plants and SMRs are included in the recent government announcements and are part of the Net Zero solution.  They can also be part of diverse energy solutions such as hydrogen generation, e-fuels and district heating systems.