DESIGN FEATURES OF SMALL REACTORS FOR DISTRIBUTED ENERGY PRODUCTION

Abstract

Localized energy production in a distributed system for energy generation can reduce vulnerability to power-grid failure and to environmental damage. Distributed energy resources can replace large power plants and enable autonomous (independent of the main electrical grid) energy delivery through a microgrid. Distributed generation relies on small-scale energy sources, such as wind turbines, solar photovoltaic cells, diesel generators, gas turbines, or fuel cells. An energy storage system can help stabilize the grid by compensating for the variable and intermittent nature of the renewable solar and wind sources. However, the necessary baseload needs of a regional grid can be provided by employing a small nuclear reactor, instead of other greenhouse gas emitting sources. This paper discusses the design features in SMRs that can enable reduction of the exclusion zones around them, so that they can be sited closer to populations.