Nuclear energy companies are focusing on creating smaller reactors, resembling the size of shipping containers, to compete with electric batteries as a notable zero-carbon energy source. Leading this initiative is Westinghouse, which aims to develop “microreactors” that could effectively replace diesel and natural gas generators that currently power various operations, including data centers and remote, off-grid communities.
Jon Ball, who heads the eVinci microreactor program at Westinghouse, explained that the original aim was to find energy solutions for remote areas that heavily rely on costly diesel. However, the interest in these microreactors has expanded significantly, and the company believes this area will see considerable growth.
The nuclear sector is experiencing a resurgence as both governments and major tech firms look for clean energy sources to fulfill their climate goals. There are numerous ongoing projects aimed at developing small modular reactors capable of producing up to about 300 megawatts of energy. In contrast, microreactors generate a smaller output, around 20 megawatts, which is sufficient to supply power to about 20,000 homes. Unlike traditional setups, these microreactors are designed to operate autonomously, with no need for a control room or personnel on-site. They will be transported, connected, and run for several years before being returned to their manufacturers for refueling.
Recently, Westinghouse received approval from U.S. nuclear regulators for a control system that will eventually enable remote operation of its 8-megawatt eVinci microreactor. This reactor operates with minimal moving components and uses pipes with liquid sodium to transfer heat from its nuclear fuel to the surrounding air. The heated air can then be used to generate electricity or heat.
Ball stated that their objective is to manage these reactors remotely, allowing them to monitor multiple units deployed worldwide. The reactors utilize a small amount of ceramic-coated Triso fuel that can endure high temperatures without melting.
The eVinci is poised to be the first microreactor to complete engineering studies for a testing program, which is set to launch in 2027 at the Idaho National Laboratory in the U.S. Furthermore, Westinghouse has partnered with Core Power, a UK-based startup, to explore the potential of developing nuclear power plants at sea. Core Power’s CEO, Mikal Bøe, anticipates that they might secure an operational license by 2029, making it one of the first to hit the market.
The eVinci reactors are expected to be beneficial for sectors like data centers and the oil and gas industry, both onshore and offshore. By allowing several microreactors to function alongside each other, data centers can achieve greater energy resilience compared to relying on a solitary energy source.
The mining industry is another potential user of microreactors, particularly in the extraction of vital minerals such as cobalt and manganese, which are often located in remote areas. Ian Farnan, a professor at Cambridge, highlighted that many mines depend heavily on diesel, making operations costly and challenging due to logistics. By installing a microreactor that can last 10 to 20 years, mining operations could secure a stable energy source.
Companies like Nano Nuclear Energy are also venturing into this domain, aiming to develop a low-pressure-coolant microreactor for market release by 2031.
Other key players in the microreactor space include BWX Technologies, which supplies nuclear reactors to the U.S. Navy, and X-energy, which recently secured $500 million in funding. Both companies are involved in Project Pele, an initiative by the U.S. defense department to create a transportable nuclear reactor that can be delivered by airplane and operate for several years before being relocated.
Despite the promising developments, experts like J Clay Sell, CEO of X-energy, caution that the market for microreactors is still in its early stages. The challenge lies in achieving economics that make smaller reactors viable. Bøe indicated that as production ramps up, microreactors could become cost-competitive, especially for specialized settings like ports or isolated locations where diesel and gas transportation costs are high.
However, there are significant regulatory and safety concerns around the construction, transportation, and operation of microreactors. Ronan Tanguy from the World Nuclear Association pointed out that new rules must be established regarding remote operation, safety against cyber threats, and the logistics of moving reactors, especially across borders. Given their smaller size, these reactors also present a unique challenge in terms of nuclear fuel security.
In summary, while microreactors hold great promise for future energy solutions, careful consideration of safety regulations and economic factors will be essential as this industry evolves.