In the debate over the energy infrastructure required for the rapid growth of AI, small (nuclear) modular reactors (SMEs)are being touted in some quarters as a reliable, dense and zero-carbon way to supply data centers and critical networks.
A seductive idea for industries looking to justify colossal investments, it also demands rigorous and critical scrutiny. After all, a nuclear reactor is a nuclear reactor, with inherent dangers, and multiplying the number of installations also multiplies the risk vectors. An SMR on a truck: what could possibly go wrong?
The promise of “safer”, “modular”, “quick to deploy” and “low carbon” energy doesn’t hold up in the face of history, economics, or risk analysis. Modular designs have been explored before, and they faced the same obstacles: uncontrollable costs, complex engineering, difficulties in scaling and operational problems. The simple truth is that small nuclear reactors can’t compete with renewables today. Instead, the arguments are based on political, financial and institutional motivations, fueled by a mentally ill person who hates renewables.
First, the technical and operational risks. A reactor, large or small, is based on fissile materials; radioactive, very hot and requiring complex cooling systems. There are no…
