The development of small modular reactors: Which markets for which applications?

This paper reviews the current discourses held on the potential development of SMR up to 2035. The views supported by existing market studies are diverse in terms of market applications, potential deployment scale, and geographical areas. However, most of them agree on the fact that SMRs would be a niche market within the next decades compared to large nuclear reactors. Our analysis also indicates that uncertainties are high with regards to economic and regulatory issues. Stakeholders, including policy makers, should in particular focus on developing the supply chain and addressing licensing issues. These are fundamental aspects to enable SMR to meet the projected market demand without jeopardizing nuclear safety standards or the overall economics.