Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) represent the next generation of nuclear technology, offering flexible, scalable, and cost-effective solutions for clean energy generation. These compact reactors are ideal for countries like Ireland with smaller electricity grids and specific energy needs.
Understanding Small Modular Reactors
What are SMRs?
Learn about the technology, design principles, and how SMRs differ from traditional large-scale nuclear reactors.
Learn MoreBenefits of SMRs
Discover the advantages including lower capital costs, enhanced safety features, and flexible deployment options.
View BenefitsGlobal SMR Activity
Explore how countries worldwide are developing and deploying small modular reactor technology.
Global OverviewResources & Research
IAEA SMR Section
Comprehensive information from the International Atomic Energy Agency on small modular reactor development, safety standards, and international cooperation.
Visit IAEA SMR Hub →Nuclear Energy Market Potential
Analysis of the market opportunities and economic potential for nuclear energy, including SMRs in various applications.
Read Report →US Designs Under Review
SMR designs currently under regulatory review by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).
View US Designs →Canada Designs Under Review
Pre-licensing vendor design reviews conducted by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC).
View Canadian Designs →SMR Designs Suitable for Ireland
A selection of current Small Modular Reactor designs that would be suitable for developing nuclear power in Ireland, considering our grid size, energy needs, and infrastructure.
Rolls-Royce SMR
United KingdomCapacity: 470 MWe
Technology: Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR)
Status: Design certification process
Advanced manufacturing techniques and modular construction approach designed to reduce costs and deployment time.
GE-Hitachi BWRX-300
USA / JapanCapacity: 300 MWe
Technology: Boiling Water Reactor (BWR)
Status: Canadian regulatory review
Simplified passive safety systems and reduced capital costs through design innovation and manufacturing efficiency.
TerraPower Natrium
United StatesCapacity: 345 MWe
Technology: Sodium-cooled Fast Reactor
Status: Demonstration project underway
Advanced reactor design with integrated energy storage system for flexible power output and grid support.
NuScale Power Module
United StatesCapacity: 77 MWe per module
Technology: Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR)
Status: First SMR certified by NRC (2020)
Scalable design allowing 4-12 modules per plant, providing flexible capacity from 308 to 924 MWe.
Moltex Energy SSR-W
United KingdomCapacity: 300-450 MWe
Technology: Molten Salt Reactor
Status: Canadian regulatory review
CANDU fuel compatible design with waste recycling capability, offering enhanced sustainability.
Why SMRs for Ireland?
Right-Sized for Ireland
SMRs' smaller capacity (50-500 MWe) is well-suited to Ireland's electricity grid, avoiding the challenges of deploying gigawatt-scale reactors.
Lower Capital Costs
Factory fabrication and modular construction reduce upfront investment and financial risk compared to traditional nuclear plants.
Enhanced Safety
Passive safety systems that don't require external power or human intervention provide additional layers of protection.
Flexible Deployment
Can be deployed individually or in multiples, allowing incremental capacity additions as demand grows.
Faster Construction
Modular factory construction and simpler on-site assembly significantly reduce build time compared to large reactors.
Multiple Applications
Beyond electricity, SMRs can provide industrial heat, district heating, hydrogen production, and desalination.