Why Small Modular Reactors are essential for powering AI
Most AI conversations focus on streamlining workflows but AI is also driving demand for massive amounts of reliable, always-on power, with data centre electricity demand expected to double by 2030.
The challenge when powering servers is that data centres cannot pause operations depending on output from renewable sources for example, they require stable, continuous power with strict uptime. Relying on fossil fuel powered generators is not a long term solution as it undermines net zero strategies. Nor is the grid a viable option as operators face long lead times for new grid connections. In some regions such as West London, new developments cannot expect grid connection until mid-2030s. All these challenges are positioning SMRs as a viable option for energy-intensive infrastructure.
SMRs offer the tantalising opportunity to tap into carbon-free energy in a form that’s compact footprint and can be located near the data centre to reduce transmission losses.
Offsite manufacturing
A key aspect of SMRs is how the technology is designed and delivered. Traditional nuclear power stations are massive and complex construction programmes that take decades to complete. This presents a major challenge to the supply chain. To be involved in a given project, individual suppliers have to achieve nuclear certifications, hire specialist workers, upskill their existing teams and negotiate with their own suppliers for small quantities of specialist materials. As a result, traditional nuclear projects have long lead times and a high price tag.
SMRs are designed to overcome this, being based on modular construction, similar to the trend of offsite manufacture that is growing across the construction industry. Modular and offsite construction is based on serial production of modules and components in the factory. This means consistent ongoing work and standard specifications for suppliers. In turn, suppliers can be better partners to the industry as they’ll have the power to negotiate better prices and hone the quality and efficiency of processes. They can also spread the cost of specialist training and certifications over multiple projects and invest in long-term skills development. Factory production will also boost advanced manufacturing, which is a key focus in the UK’s industrial strategy.
The shift will significantly reduce the complexity of construction and commissioning to reduce project time and risk. And once in operation, it will ensure long-term availability of spare parts and expert service support from the OEM so that operational engineers do not face the challenge of re-engineering complex assemblies.
Energy security
Recent events have shown how ents from rising prices for consumers to supply chain disruption. Also, the pressure of net zero is driving energy-intensive sectors to electrify processes which causes more demand on the grid. SMRs support this by supplying power to industrial clusters directly, which aligns with UK Government policy to co-locate SMRs with major energy users. SMRs are now rightly seen as strategic infrastructure projects that will not only help the UK’s advanced industries operate but strengthen national energy security.
