“The NIA views SMRs as a viable proposition for future deployment in the UK; potentially having a key role in delivering low carbon energy at lower upfront capital costs compared to large nuclear reactors.” Keith Parker, CEO, Nuclear Industry Association
The Energy and Climate Change Committee’s report on Small Nuclear Power released last week, concludes a nine month inquiry, with its recommendations supported by the Nuclear Industry Association (NIA).
During the inquiry the NIA’s evidence stated that as a new technology in the early stages of development, SMRs should be viewed as a potential complementary technology to the current nuclear new build programme. We were very clear that the new build programme should remain the priority and are pleased this view is shared by the ECCC.
In the next decade and a half, 16GW of nuclear power will be introduced to the UK, during which time the majority of the current operating fleet will come offline. We believe SMRs could support this programme. Like their larger cousins they could make a major contribution to meet the UKs carbon reduction and energy security objectives.
During its evidence sessions, the committee found SMRs offer a significant opportunity to the UK in terms of skills, strengthening our already robust supply chain and export opportunities. However, recent investor challenges seen in other countries highlighted that initial investment would need to come from both the private and public sector – a finding reflected by the NIA through our own analysis. And because commercial viability of SMRs remains unclear, the committee called for Government to undertake further assessments on the economic, technical and commercial opportunities.
With current SMR designs being developed outside the UK, there is also scope for the British industry to work on them through international collaboration. If successful this could ultimately help to strengthen Britain as a key player in this market.
The NIA views SMRs as a viable proposition for future deployment in the UK; potentially having a key role in delivering low carbon energy at lower upfront capital costs compared to large nuclear reactors. However, it is important the focus stays on the current agenda, and the committee has rightly recognised industry’s first and foremost priority must be the successful delivery of the current new build programme.