In a recent announcement, Norsk Kjernekraft, a Norwegian nuclear power developer, revealed its intention to install small modular reactors (SMRs) in remote industrial regions that require a reliable power supply and access to heat.
The firm has noted that although current projections for energy demand in Norway range from 50 TWh to 233 TWh, the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies could significantly alter these figures. The company explains that“the demand for data processing and storage by AI is virtually unlimited, which could eliminate any constraints on future energy needs.”
[post_relacionado]In addition, the company highlights a change in the paradigm of energy generation. power generation In the past, industry was located close to hydroelectric plants, but SMRs allow power generation to be located directly at industrial sites. This could replicate the impact that hydropower had on Norway’s economic development, ensuring low-cost electricity for decades once the facilities are amortized.
The potential of small modular reactors
In addition to generating electricity, nuclear reactors are capable of producing large amounts of heat, which can be used in heat-intensive industrial processes such as steel and aluminum manufacturing, as well as in the carbon capture and the production of hydrogen and other fuels. Norsk Kjernekraft suggests that utilizing this waste heat could decrease the need for grid expansion.
The strategy of building SMR plants in areas not connected to the main grid can potentiate project economics, especially in early installations that tend to be more costly. “This will ensure a reliable power supply for industry, adding considerable value for industrial players.“, says the company.
According to Norsk Kjernekraft, implementing SMR in collaboration with heat-intensive industries ensures sound economics for the project and enables municipalities to foster industrial development and job creation, promoting long-term economic growth. The company cites the case of Norway as an ideal destination for data centersIt suggests that nuclear energy could be key to attracting this type of investment without the drawbacks associated with renewable energy sources that require large tracts of land.
Energy for different installations
It is important to note that earlier this year, Google began construction of a data center in Skien, its first such facility in Norway, with a projected demand of 840 MW of electricity for the next two decades. Norsk Kjernekraft proposes the construction of several SMRs in the area that could supply the energy needed for this facility and other industrial uses, combining electricity generation with heat production for local industry.
“The use of SMRs will be considered where feasible from an end-to-end perspective, although we do not rule out connecting these facilities to the existing grid where practical,” the company clarifies. It also notes that it will continue to work closely with local and international authorities to comply with the regulations and standards necessary to advance these projects.
Finally, Norsk Kjernekraft has signed preliminary agreements with several municipalities to explore the feasibility of these plants and has submitted appraisal proposals for projects in several locations, advancing planning for a possible significant expansion of nuclear power in Norway.
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Source: eurasiareview