Nonproliferation improvements and challenges presented by small modular reactors
Small modular reactors (SMRs) may provide an energy option that will not emit greenhouse gases. From a commercial point-of-view, SMRs will be suitable to serve smaller energy markets with less developed infrastructure, to replace existing old nuclear and coal power plants, and to provide process heat in various industrial applications. In this paper, we examine how SMRs might challenge and improve the existing nonproliferation regime. To motivate our discussion, we first present the opinions gathered from an international group of nuclear experts at an SMR workshop. Next, various aspects of SMR designs such as: fissile material inventory, core-life, refueling, burnup, digital instrumentation and controls, under- ground designs, sealed designs, enrichment, breeders, excess reactivity, fuel element size, coolant opacity, and sea-based nuclear plants are discussed in the context of proliferation concerns. In doing this, we have used publicly available design information about a number of SMR designs (B&W mPower, SVBR-100, KLT-40S, Toshiba 4S, and General Atomics EM 2 ). Finally, a number of recommendations are offered to help alleviate proliferation concerns that may arise due to SMR design features.
Economic feasibility of high-temperature reactors for industrial cogeneration: an investor's perspective
ABSTRACT This paper studies the economic potential of using high-temperature nuclear reactors (HTRs) for cogeneration of industrial process heat and electricity. A reference case HTR is found to deliver cost-competitive process heat with temperatures of ≥200 °C, rendering the chemical and pulp and paper industries potential candidates. The reference case investment yields a positive net present value of €304 million. Real options analysis is employed to account for the uncertain environment and the resulting managerial flexibilities of the project. A real option model for optimal investment timing is adapted to HTRs for industrial cogeneration. The value of the option to invest in an HTR is determined at €667 million and the electricity price threshold for an optimal investment at 79 €/MWh. Though the option to invest in an HTR represents a significant value for a utility, the investment should be delayed until the electricity price has reached the threshold value. We also propose a model to calculate the option value of switching between two different operating modes (cogeneration vs. electricity only). For the reference case, this option value turns out to be €85 million.
Thermal properties of the Florida Current as related to Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC)
The thermal properties of the Florida Current are presented and analyzed for the available ocean thermal energy. For a cold water intake depth equal to or greater than 600 m, potential sites for Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) power plants appear to exist in the Straits of Florida and, to a lesser extent, off the coasts of Georgia and South Carolina. The maximum thermal differences occur on the continental shelf because of the geostrophic motion of the Gulf Stream. An estimate of the total available ocean thermal energy from the Florida Current, delivered in the form of electricity, is 3.5 × 1012 kWh yr−1. For a cold water suction depth of 600 m or more, seasonal variability in the ocean thermal resource is approx. ±35 per cent of average annual output.