Daily Current Affairs : 10-August-2023
In the ever-evolving landscape of energy production, several countries are turning their attention towards developing Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) to complement conventional Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs). These innovative reactors hold the potential to address the challenges posed by the transition from coal-fired power generation to cleaner alternatives.
Need for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
The world is striving to shift towards clean energy sources to combat climate change. While solar and wind energy have gained prominence, it’s becoming clear that these sources alone might not be sufficient to provide affordable energy to all. The UN Sustainable Development Goal 7 underscores the importance of affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for everyone. With 82% of global energy still reliant on fossil fuels, decarbonizing the power sector is pivotal. Furthermore, the share of electricity in final energy consumption is projected to increase significantly by 2050.
Despite the rise of solar and wind power, recent data from Europe shows an unexpected uptick in coal consumption. This highlights the necessity for reliable, low-carbon electricity sources that can ensure consistent power supply while maintaining grid stability and energy security. Traditional NPPs have often faced challenges like time and cost overruns, necessitating the exploration of alternatives such as SMRs to supplement conventional NPPs.
What are Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)?
SMRs are advanced nuclear reactors with a power capacity of up to 300 MW(e) per unit, about one-third of the generating capacity of traditional nuclear power reactors. These reactors are designed with enhanced safety features, including improved resistance to core damage and radioactive contamination. Additionally, they incorporate advanced seismic isolation technology to ensure greater safety.
Advantages of Small Modular Reactors
SMR designs prioritize simplicity and passive safety features, reducing the risk of uncontrolled release of radioactive materials. The amount of spent nuclear fuel generated in SMRs is lower than that of conventional NPPs. These reactors can be installed and operated at brownfield sites that might not meet the stringent requirements for traditional NPPs. Most land-based SMRs use low-enriched uranium, which can be obtained from countries with uranium mines and enrichment facilities operating according to international standards.
The factory manufacturing and on-site assembly approach of SMRs minimizes the potential for time and cost overruns. Serial manufacturing of SMRs streamlines plant design, aiding regulatory approvals and facilitating experiential learning through repeated production.
Relevance for India
India, in particular, can benefit from the accelerated deployment of SMRs. Transitioning from coal to nuclear energy at existing thermal power plant sites could move the country closer to its net-zero goals and enhance energy security. As uranium resources are more widely distributed than critical minerals, this shift can reduce dependence on concentrated reserves.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
To fully harness the potential of SMRs, certain legal and regulatory changes are necessary. The Atomic Energy Act must be amended to enable private sector participation in SMR setup. While control of nuclear fuel and radioactive waste should remain with the government to ensure safety and security, an independent regulatory board should be established to oversee all stages of nuclear power generation. Security aspects surrounding SMRs must remain under government control, allowing privately-owned SMRs to operate under the guidance of the Nuclear Power Corporation during the initial phases.
Lastly, the Department of Atomic Energy needs to enhance public perception of nuclear power in India by disseminating comprehensive environmental and public health data related to civilian reactors operating under international safeguards.
Important Points:
Global Energy Challenges:
- Shift from coal-fired power generation to clean energy is posing challenges.
- Solar and wind energy alone might not meet the global energy demand.
- UN Sustainable Development Goal 7 emphasizes affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for all.
- Fossil fuels still account for 82% of global energy supply.
- Electricity’s share in final energy consumption expected to increase by 80%-150% by 2050.
- Europe’s coal consumption rise despite solar and wind power signals the need for stable low-carbon electricity.
Need for SMRs:
- Traditional Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs) face time and cost overruns.
- Complementary solutions needed to ensure reliable, continuous power generation.
- SMRs offer a potential solution to supplement conventional NPPs.
Understanding SMRs:
- Small Modular Reactors are advanced nuclear reactors with up to 300 MW(e) per unit capacity.
- Designed for enhanced safety, with lower core damage frequency and radioactive contamination.
- Advanced seismic isolation technology adds an extra layer of security.
Advantages of SMRs:
- Simpler designs with passive safety features.
- Reduced risk of uncontrolled release of radioactive materials.
- Lower amount of spent nuclear fuel compared to conventional NPPs.
- Suitable for brownfield sites with less stringent zoning requirements.
- Most land-based SMRs use low-enriched uranium, widely available.
- Factory manufacturing and on-site assembly minimize time and cost overruns.
- Serial manufacturing lowers costs and streamlines regulatory approvals.
Relevance for India:
- SMRs could accelerate India’s transition from coal to nuclear energy.
- Existing thermal power plant sites could be repurposed for SMR deployment.
- Move towards net-zero emissions and enhanced energy security.
- Reduced dependence on concentrated reserves of critical minerals.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations:
- Amendment of Atomic Energy Act necessary for private sector participation in SMR setup.
- Government should retain control over nuclear fuel, radioactive waste, safety, and security.
- Establishment of an independent regulatory board to oversee all stages of nuclear power generation.
- Government control over SMR security while private operation is guided by the Nuclear Power Corporation.
Enhancing Public Perception:
- The Department of Atomic Energy must improve public perception of nuclear power.
- Dissemination of comprehensive environmental and public health data regarding civilian reactors operating under international safeguards.
Why In News
Several countries are actively engaged in the development of small modular reactors (SMRs) as a strategic approach to complement their existing fleet of conventional nuclear power plants (NPPs). These innovative SMRs offer potential advantages such as enhanced safety features and flexibility in deployment, ensuring a diversified and resilient energy portfolio for these nations.
MCQs about Small Modular Reactors
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What is the main challenge in transitioning from coal-fired power generation to clean energy?
A. Limited availability of solar and wind energy
B. High cost of clean energy technologies
C. Inadequate technological advancements
D. Lack of government support
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What is the primary advantage of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) over conventional Nuclear Power Plants (NPPs)?
A. Enhanced safety features
B. Larger power capacity
C. Reduced need for regulatory approvals
D. Lower construction costs
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Why is the deployment of SMRs considered relevant for India’s energy goals?
A. To accelerate the shift to cleaner energy sources
B. To increase coal consumption
C. To reduce reliance on solar and wind energy
D. To promote the use of fossil fuels
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What legal change is required for the private sector to set up Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)?
A. Amendment of Atomic Energy Act
B. Creation of an independent regulatory board
C. Abolishment of the Department of Atomic Energy
D. Expansion of uranium mines
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