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2024-01-31 00:00:00
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Poland is showing a strong interest in the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), with the Polish Economic Institute indicating the potential for approximately 100 such reactors to be constructed within the country. The inaugural SMR is expected to be operational at the beginning of the next decade.
SMRs, typically defined as nuclear reactors with a capacity of 300 MWe or less, are known for their modular design, factory fabrication, and the benefits of mass production and reduced construction times.
Szczepan Ruman, president of the Swietokrzyskie Industrial Group Industria, which last year formed a partnership with Rolls-Royce SMR in this field, emphasized the suitability of SMRs in locations where larger nuclear power plants are not feasible due to environmental constraints. He noted that SMRs will not only generate electricity but also provide heat.
The push for SMRs in Poland is driven by two primary factors: the current reliance on coal for approximately 70% of Poland's energy needs, and the goal to decarbonize both transportation and industry sectors. With the anticipated shift to electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles and the industrial use of green hydrogen, the demand for electricity is expected to surge, prompting what Ruman describes as a renaissance in large-scale nuclear power.
SMRs are increasingly recognized as a promising technology for the future, potentially replacing conventional power generation methods. Their appeal lies in being a safe, clean energy source, with lower costs and shorter construction times compared to traditional nuclear power plants. Additionally, SMRs offer flexibility in terms of construction locations and can be customized to meet specific investor requirements.
Notable global players in the SMR market include NuScale from the US, Nuward in Europe, and Rolls-Royce SMR, which commenced its 470 MWe UK SMR project as early as 2015. This global interest underlines the growing recognition of SMRs' potential in modern energy infrastructure.
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