Home / Science / New Nuclear Age Dawns: Small Reactors Promise Cheaper Power
New Nuclear Age Dawns: Small Reactors Promise Cheaper Power
6 Jan
Summary
- Small modular reactors aim to be cheaper and easier to build.
- Companies like Kairos Energy are constructing new reactor designs.
- AI's demand for electricity is driving renewed interest in nuclear power.
The United States is seeing a resurgence in nuclear power development, spearheaded by new small modular reactor (SMR) designs. Companies such as Kairos Energy are constructing these advanced reactors, which promise to be more affordable and quicker to build than conventional plants. This renewed focus is partly driven by the immense electricity demands of artificial intelligence technologies, creating a potential for a new nuclear age.
Companies are leveraging innovative approaches, including mass production of components and the use of advanced fuels like TRISO. While some experts express concerns about safety and cost, proponents believe SMRs, like those being developed in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, will overcome historical hurdles. The industry aims to make nuclear power competitive and a key player in the global energy landscape.
Initiatives supported by government funding and private investment are accelerating the deployment of these SMRs. With projects in various stages of development across the country, the industry is racing to meet future energy needs. The success of these new designs could redefine nuclear energy's role in providing clean and reliable power for decades to come.
