One of the pressing challenges facing modern cities is the need for a sustainable and reliable energy supply. Traditional energy sources, such as coal and natural gas, contribute significantly to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. In response to these issues, the modular nuclear reactor (MNR) emerges as a promising solution to meet the growing energy demands while reducing environmental impact.
A modular nuclear reactor is a type of small nuclear reactor that is designed to be constructed in a factory setting and then transported to the site where it will be operated. Unlike traditional large-scale nuclear reactors, MNRs are built in modules that can be assembled incrementally, allowing for greater flexibility and scalability. This modular approach also reduces construction times and costs, making it an attractive option for cities looking to modernise their energy infrastructure.
The operation of an MNR is based on the same fundamental principles as larger nuclear reactors, utilising nuclear fission to generate heat, which is then converted into electricity. However, MNRs incorporate advanced safety features that significantly reduce the risk of accidents. These reactors are often designed to be "walk-away safe," meaning they can safely shut down without human intervention in the event of an emergency. Additionally, their smaller size allows them to be integrated into urban environments with minimal disruption.
As urban areas continue to expand, the demand for clean and reliable energy will only increase. MNRs offer a viable path to decarbonising the energy sector, helping cities meet their sustainability goals. Furthermore, the ability to deploy these reactors in remote or underserved areas can enhance energy security and provide a stable power supply where it is needed most.
Developer of a small modular reactor (SMR) technology designed to provide scalable, safe, and reliable carbon-free nuclear energy.
Rolls-Royce SMR
United Kingdom · Company
A dedicated business established to deploy a fleet of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in the UK and globally.
Nuclear innovation company developing the Natrium reactor, a sodium-fast reactor combined with a molten salt energy storage system.
Provider of advanced nuclear reactors and services, specifically developing the BWRX-300 small modular reactor.
Nuclear energy pioneer developing the eVinci Micro-Reactor and the AP300 Small Modular Reactor.
Developer of the Xe-100 high-temperature gas-cooled small modular reactor and TRISO-X fuel.
Energy technology company developing the SMR-160, a pressurized water small modular reactor.
Spin-off from the Energy Impact Center developing a 20 MWe micro-modular nuclear power plant.
Developer of the Stable Salt Reactor (SSR), a modular molten salt reactor design that can use recycled nuclear waste as fuel.
Danish startup developing Compact Molten Salt Reactors (CMSR) designed to be installed on floating power barges.
Paper
Prospects and Trends in the Development of Small Modular Nuclear ReactorsEnergies (MDPI) · Nov 13, 2025
Analyzes the development trends of SMRs, focusing on their role in renewable energy systems and potential for decarbonization in the context of evolving energy needs.
Paper
Small Modular Nuclear Power Reactors as a Driver of Development of Nuclear TechnologiesEnergies · Oct 31, 2025
A review defining the driving force of SMRs as their ability to enhance safety, modular scalability, and fuel sustainability through innovative design and policy integration.
Report
A new nuclear world: how small modular reactors (SMRs) can power industryUrenco / LucidCatalyst · Nov 13, 2025
Assesses the SMR market opportunity in Europe and North America, focusing on energy-intensive industrial sectors and decarbonization commitments.
Report
Small Modular Reactors and their potential: A five-minute guideArup · Jun 16, 2025
Guide outlining the potential of SMRs for cogeneration, data centers, industrial heat production, and desalination, highlighting their modular and flexible nature.
News
Micro Nuclear Reactors (MNRs) Market to Reach US$ 4,865.85 Million by 2032DataM Intelligence · Feb 26, 2026
Market report projecting significant growth for Micro Nuclear Reactors, driven by demand for reliable low-carbon energy and decentralized power in remote and industrial applications.
Article
Developers of small modular reactors hope their time has comeeconomist.com
War, climate worries and oil prices make nuclear power attractive
Article
Small Modular Reactors – Key to Future Nuclear Power Generation in the U.S.energy.gov
The study team has been conducting an extensive analysis of the economics of both gigawatt (GW)-scale reactors and small modular reactors (SMRs). This technical paper provides results to date regarding the SMRs. Topics covered include the safety case; economics; the business case and a business plan; government incentives; licensing, design, and engineering; and future research. Capital cost estimates cover a range of categories, including the plant capital costs for the nuclear steam supply system, turbine building, and balance of plant; costs for engineering and construction services; owner’s costs and contingencies; and escalation and financing costs. Ongoing research is focusing on the learning process for SMRs. The study team is also releasing a companion paper on a review of overnight cost estimates for GW-level reactors.
Article
What are Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)?iaea.org
Small modular reactors (SMRs) are advanced nuclear reactors that have a power capacity of up to 300 MW(e) per unit, which is about one-third of the generating capacity of traditional nuclear power reactors. SMRs, which can produce a large amount of low-carbon electricity, are:
Article
Small Modular Reactorsrolls-royce.com
Our world needs more low-carbon power than ever. Rolls-Royce SMR Ltd has been established to develop an affordable power plant that generates electricity using a small modular reactor - an intelligent way to meet our future energy needs.
Article
Small Nuclear Power Reactorsworld-nuclear.org
There is strong interest in small and simpler units for generating electricity from nuclear power, and for process heat. This interest in small and medium nuclear power reactors is driven both by a desire to reduce the impact of capital costs and to provide power away from large grid systems. The technologies involved are numerous and very diverse.
Article
Small modular reactors: What is taking so long?energymonitor.ai
Next-generation nuclear has long been just around the corner, but debate still rages over the silver-bullet credentials of small modular reactors.
