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3. Small Modular Reactor Market Size & Share - Future Growth Expectations

The small modular reactor market is estimated to be USD 5.8 billion in 2023 to USD 6.8 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 2.3% during the forecast period. The factors that drive the market growth include versatile nature of nuclear power and modularization of SMRs. SMRs offer the potential for improved economics. Their smaller scale and standardized designs can lead to cost savings in manufacturing, construction, and maintenance. The modular nature of SMRs enables phased deployment, reducing upfront capital costs and allowing for incremental capacity expansion based on demand.

The small modular reactor market is poised for substantial growth in the coming years, driven by several key factors:

• Energy Demand
• Decarbonization Efforts
• Technological Advancements
• Modularity and Flexibility
• Energy Security and Resilience
• Supportive Policies and Investments

To know about the assumptions considered for the study download the pdf brochure!

Energy Demand

With increasing global energy demand, especially in emerging economies, there's a growing need for reliable and sustainable energy sources. Small modular reactors (SMRs) offer a promising solution due to their scalability and flexibility in deployment, catering to both large-scale and remote energy needs.

Decarbonization Efforts

As countries commit to reducing carbon emissions to combat climate change, there's a shift towards cleaner energy sources. SMRs, being nuclear-based, produce low-carbon electricity, making them attractive options for countries aiming to decarbonize their energy sectors while maintaining grid stability.

Technological Advancements

Advances in nuclear reactor design, safety features, and manufacturing processes have made SMRs more feasible and cost-effective. These advancements have mitigated some of the concerns associated with traditional nuclear power plants, such as high upfront costs and safety risks.

Modularity and Flexibility

The modular design of SMRs allows for easier manufacturing, transportation, and installation compared to traditional reactors. This modularity also enables more flexible deployment options, such as integrating with existing infrastructure or powering remote communities and industrial sites.

Energy Security and Resilience

SMRs can enhance energy security by providing a reliable source of baseload power that is less vulnerable to supply disruptions, geopolitical tensions, or natural disasters. Their smaller size and distributed nature also contribute to grid resilience by reducing the impact of potential failures.

Supportive Policies and Investments

Governments and industry stakeholders are increasingly recognizing the potential of SMRs and are implementing supportive policies, regulatory frameworks, and investment incentives to accelerate their development and deployment. These initiatives create a conducive environment for market growth and innovation in the nuclear energy sector.

Small Modular Reactor Market Share - Global Industry Landscape

The small modular reactor market is characterized by the presence of several key players competing for market share. Some of the leading companies in the small modular reactor industry include:

• NuScale Power: NuScale is one of the leading players in the SMR market, known for its innovative small modular reactor design. The company's scalable 60-megawatt (MW) reactor has received approval from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), positioning NuScale as a frontrunner in the commercialization of SMRs.

• Rolls-Royce: Rolls-Royce is actively developing its SMR concept, the "UK SMR," which aims to deliver low-cost, low-carbon nuclear power. The company's modular reactor design targets a capacity of around 440 MW, catering to both domestic and international markets.

• TerraPower: TerraPower, backed by Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, is working on advanced reactor technologies, including its Natrium reactor design. While not strictly a small modular reactor, Natrium's inherent safety features and potential for grid flexibility position it as a contender in the evolving nuclear energy landscape.

• X-energy: X-energy is developing its Xe-100 SMR, a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) with a projected capacity of 80-300 MW. The company's reactor design focuses on inherent safety, operational flexibility, and enhanced proliferation resistance.

• China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC): China has been investing heavily in SMR development, with CNNC leading the charge. The company's "Linglong One" SMR, a pressurized water reactor (PWR) design, is intended for both domestic and export markets, contributing to China's nuclear energy expansion goals.

• BWX Technologies, Inc. (BWXT): BWXT is involved in the development of various SMR components, including reactor vessels, fuel, and control systems. The company's expertise in nuclear manufacturing and engineering services positions it as a key supplier to the SMR market.

• Rosatom: Russia's state-owned nuclear company, Rosatom, is actively promoting its "RITM-200" SMR design for international markets. The reactor, based on pressurized water reactor technology, offers a capacity of around 50-300 MW and is marketed as a cost-effective and reliable energy solution.

Related Reports:

Small Modular Reactor Market by Reactor (HWR, LWR, HTR, FNR, MSR), Application (Power Generation, Desalination, Hydrogen Generation, Industrial), Deployment (Single, Multi), Connectivity, Location, Coolant, Power Rating & Region - Global Forecast to 2030