The transition to renewables has ignited the nuclear power conversation. It’s no secret that nuclear power can be extremely helpful in powering cities with clean energy, but risks of meltdowns, particularly post-2011, have caused apprehension about investing more in the industry.
However, several states in the United States rely on nuclear power, and more are ready to reinvest in reactors. More research about the benefits of nuclear energy is also coming to light. Here are three significant updates from the industry.
Google, Microsoft Invest In Nucor Cleantech
Microsoft and Google have been investing in carbon capture and sequestration, which includes funding more renewable energy projects. The two technology giants recently invested in Nucor, the recycled steelmaker.
According to a news release, the company will create an “electricity ecosystem” for new business models amid increasing demand for renewable energy technology.
This effort includes developing nuclear power, next-generation geothermal, clean hydrogen, and long-duration energy storage.
Pilot programs around the U.S. will be run to ensure the demand and procurement models.
Photo Courtesy Vladislav Vedenskii
Finnish Research Study Shows Nuclear Benefits
VTT Technical Research Center of Finland concluded that small modular nuclear reactors could meet demands for heat production and industrial appliances without contributing significant emissions. The study looked at standard Life Cycle Analysis, which measures energy and material streams of different phases of the nuclear power life cycle.
The scientists found that an LDR-50 small modular reactor produced only 2.4 grams of carbon dioxide per kilowatt-hour, which is comparatively fewer emissions than coal, natural gas, peat, and even some biofuels.
“More importantly, it was shown that the carbon footprint of nuclear-based district heating can be more than two orders of magnitude smaller than that of fossil heating fuels,” VTT said in the study findings.
“The nuclear option also did well in comparison to direct electric heating and heat pumps, even when the electricity supply came from low-carbon sources.”
The study suggests that European nations with higher use of coal and other fossil fuels should consider nuclear power for heating and electricity. Specifically, Czechia, Estonia, Poland, and Germany could benefit substantially.
According to World Nuclear News, Steady Energy, a spin-off company of VTT, plans to begin constructing an LDR-50 district heating plant by 2028 and expects to have the first unit operational by 2030.
Photo Courtesy Dominion Energy
Dominion Energy Considers Small Modular Reactor
Dominion Energy put in a Request for Proposals for small modular nuclear reactor developers to evaluate using the technology at the North Anna nuclear plant in Virginia. There’s no binding commitment to install a new reactor at the plant, but Dominion is seriously considering it. Virginia is looking for alternative energy to lower its carbon footprint, and nuclear power could be one of many steps in doing so.
The plant held an event for the request, with Gov. Glenn Youngkin and other state politicians in attendance.
The governor said it is “imperative we continue to explore emerging technologies that will provide Virginians access to reliable, affordable, and clean energy they deserve.”
Nuclear power currently accounts for 40% of Virginia’s electricity needs. Mixing it with solar, offshore wind, and battery storage would give the state reliable zero-emission power sources.
According to World Nuclear News, North Anna currently has two 944-megawatt electric pressurized water reactors. The plant has operated since 1978 and 1980 and can continue to operate from 2038 and 2040. Dominion has applied for a 20-year extension for both reactors. An additional small modular reactor would increase capacity and alleviate grid strain.
