Nuclear Beyond Power
Nuclear Beyond Power
31st May 2022
This webinar explored the diverse applications of nuclear technology beyond electricity generation, including industrial heat, medical isotopes, research reactors, and emerging uses in hydrogen production and district heating.
Expert Speakers
Eric Ingersoll
Founder & Managing Director, TerraPraxis
Eric is an entrepreneur and clean energy expert who founded TerraPraxis to accelerate carbon-free energy solutions globally. He has worked with ARPA-E (US Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy), the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), and the UK's Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS). His focus is on commercializing innovative nuclear technologies and repurposing existing energy infrastructure for decarbonization.
James Lawless TD
Fianna Fáil, Kildare North
James is a Teachta Dála (TD) representing Kildare North and serves on the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Environment and Climate Action. He holds degrees in mathematics, finance, and law, and has extensive experience in IT and financial services. James has been a vocal advocate for evidence-based energy policy and nuclear research in Ireland.
Discussion Topics
- Industrial Heat: How nuclear reactors can provide high-temperature heat for manufacturing, chemical processes, and heavy industry
- Medical Isotopes: The critical role of nuclear reactors in producing radioisotopes for cancer treatment and medical diagnostics
- Research Reactors: Applications in materials science, neutron imaging, and silicon doping for semiconductors
- Hydrogen Production: Using nuclear heat to produce clean hydrogen for transport and industry
- District Heating: Opportunities for nuclear cogeneration in urban heating systems
- Small Modular Reactors: How SMRs enable diverse applications beyond traditional baseload power
Watch the Webinar
The full discussion and Q&A session, moderated by Sarah Cullen (Co-founder, 18for0), is available on YouTube.
Watch on YouTubeKey Insights
The webinar highlighted that electricity generation represents only one application of nuclear technology. From life-saving medical treatments to enabling clean industrial processes, nuclear reactors serve diverse roles in modern society. For Ireland, understanding these broader applications is essential for informed energy and climate policy.