Research Impact & Highlights Details

The First Saudi Advanced Small Modular Reactor Design

01 Oct 2024 @ 09:00 AM

Interdisciplinary Center for Industrial Nuclear Energy ____________________________________________________________________________________

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are a modern class of nuclear fission reactors that can generate up to 300 MW(electric) of power. Their small and compact design provides several advantages, making them suitable for deployment at sites where large conventional nuclear power plants are not feasible. This project aims to design an advanced small modular reactor specifically for the Saudi market. The foreseen SMR design will be unique and specifically developed to cater to Saudi Arabia’s energy needs and challenges. A comprehensive project management plan has been developed to ensure the successful completion of this project.

The SMR design will offer a distinctive, customized solution tailored to address the specific needs and challenges of Saudi Arabia's energy market. It will be based on innovative reactor designs, often referred to as Generation IV reactors. These advanced designs are expected to produce energy more efficiently than conventional water-cooled reactors while minimizing nuclear waste. Successful implementation could position Saudi Arabia as a key competitor in the global nuclear market.

The planned SMR design will also be integrable, meaning it can be used for energy production and other applications such as desalination, hydrogen production, and integrated renewable energy systems. It will be highly flexible, easily adaptable to meet varying energy demands and capable of powering smaller electrical markets and grids, remote areas, and sites with limited water resources.

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Partners:

  • Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI), Switzerland


Sustainable Development Goals: