Energy: Small Modular Reactors Getting Green Light in Slovakia

Bratislava, 15 January (TASR) - Slovakia has a real chance of ranking among the leaders in the deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs), as it has suitable sites, experts and infrastructure, according to the first comprehensive feasibility study titled Project Phoenix, which was presented at power utility Slovenske elektrarne (SE) on Thursday. Drawn up as part of cooperation between the Economy Ministry, international engineering company Sargent & Lundy and SE as an expert partner, the study aims to provide an independent assessment of Slovakia's technical, economic, environmental and regulatory prerequisites for SMRs as a new generation of nuclear reactors with a capacity of up to 300 MWe (megawatts electric). "Small modular reactors represent a strategic opportunity for Slovakia. They could strengthen our energy security, contribute to decarbonisation and bring new investments to the regions," said SE Branislav Strycek. "The study confirms that we have both suitable sites and expert potential and experience to build upon. Even today, we're thinking about future sources, as demand for electricity will grow in the coming years, while SMRs are one of the realistic alternatives for responding to this challenge responsibly," added Strycek. The study analysed over 100 different parameters based on recommendations from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), such as external risks, geotechnical conditions, environmental and safety aspects, and the suitability of sites in terms of seismic stability, availability of water, grid connections and environmental impacts. All of the four evaluated sites (Jaslovske Bohunice, Mochovce, Vojany and U.S. Steel) meet the basic criteria for building SMRs. Also assessed were the most advanced reactor designs from leading global manufacturers, with several of them technically suitable for Slovakia while meeting international safety standards. Unlike traditional large nuclear units, SMRs are designed as compact units that make maximum use of prefabricated and proven components or parts of technology. They can be built more rapidly and deployed flexibly, and it is easier to integrate them into existing grids. jrg/df