Life Cycle Environmental Impacts of Small Modular Reactors: BWRX-300 Darlington Project

Abstract

The demand for sustainable energy solutions has brought Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) into the spotlight for their potential to provide low-carbon energy. This research initiates a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of the BWRX-300 to be operated in Ontario, Canada. The primary aim is to provide insights for Ontario's electricity generation system through a robust investigation of the BWRX-300's environmental impact. The LCA was initiated by estimating GHG emissions for the BWRX-300's construction, focusing on concrete and steel, scaled from a large-scale reactor and using publicly available emission factors. Early findings suggest steel production, particularly for turbine plant equipment, has higher GHG emissions than concrete production. The completed LCA will include the full SMR life cycle, including the nuclear fuel cycle, operation & maintenance, decommissioning, and waste management. This research contributes to the understanding of the environmental impacts of SMRs, with the hope of promoting the advancement of sustainable energy initiatives.