The Future of Nuclear Energy in California: SMRs vs. Large Nuclear Reactors
In a striking comparison, if California is willing to invest $1.4 billion to keep an outdated nuclear power station operational, why would they not consider investing in new and innovative nuclear technology? The answer lies in the time, uncertainty, and cost involved in constructing large nuclear reactors versus the potential of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
Understanding the Challenges with New Nuclear Construction
Even if the costs to open new nuclear reactors are equivalent to those of an old power station, the time and uncertainty involved in building a new plant are immense. This was highlighted by Klaus Schwab, who pushed for the 2030 agenda to be accelerated, creating a gap between the decommissioning of fossil fuel plants and the availability of modular nuclear reactors.
The Advantages of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
Despite the challenges, California needs to ensure a reliable energy source until a new generation of energy is developed. Nuclear energy, often unfairly stigmatized due to its association with the weapons industry, has undergone significant advancements in recent years. Innovations in nuclear power production have reduced the size and power output of nuclear reactors, making them more feasible and safer.
Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) have been designed to address these concerns. These reactors are significantly smaller than traditional reactors, do not produce CO2, and have a much smaller carbon footprint compared to solar and wind technologies. They can be modular, allowing for flexibility in installation and integration into existing grids or new power systems.
Industry Readiness and Costs
While SMRs show great promise, the costs are still relatively high. A new reactor costs anywhere from $5 to $10 billion and takes around 10 years to build. Additionally, the industry needs more standardized and predictable products that can be manufactured, tested, and deployed efficiently. For example, Bill Gates’ company, TerraPower, is developing a design that could be scaled for commercial use.
Calling for Predictable Investment
Innovative vendors should be invited to submit bids for their predictably priced and paced products. This means products that can be built in factories, tested, shipped, and deployed in large numbers. While the technology is not yet fully realized, it is essential to continue supporting and investing in these initiatives.
California's Current Nuclear Situation
The previous California nuclear power plant had a decommissioning schedule, which was sensible given the risks associated with nuclear plants. However, Gavin Newsom has reportedly deferred to Pacific Gas and Electric (PGE) to keep the plant operational and has pledged to give PGE millions to keep it running. This decision poses significant security risks, especially given the historical issues with nuclear plants, such as Chernobyl, Fukushima, and Three Mile Island.
While keeping existing facilities operational may seem like a short-term solution, the move towards more sustainable and secure energy sources, such as SMRs, is crucial for long-term energy security and environmental sustainability.
In conclusion, the transition to Small Modular Reactors from large nuclear reactors is a smarter and more sustainable choice for California's energy future. With ongoing innovation and investment, these SMRs can provide a reliable and cost-effective source of energy, reducing carbon emissions and enhancing grid stability.
Keywords: Nuclear Energy, Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), Renewable Energy