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A Defining Moment for U.S. Energy Policy
The United States has just given regulatory approval to build the NuScale US-460 small modular reactor (SMR),
a $9 billion project that may redefine how America powers its future. Although the reactor is not yet operational, the
approval is a pivotal step toward adopting modular nuclear energy as a serious clean power option.
What Sets SMRs Apart?
Small Modular Reactors like the NuScale US-460 offer a number of advantages over traditional nuclear plants:
- Faster Deployment: SMRs are manufactured in factories and shipped to sites, significantly reducing construction time.
- Enhanced Safety: The design includes passive safety features that allow automatic shutdown without human intervention.
- Scalability: Multiple modules can be added over time based on energy needs, making them adaptable for growing communities.
Why It’s Not Online Yet
Approval doesn’t mean construction has started. NuScale is still seeking a financial and operational partner
after a prior project with Utah municipalities collapsed due to rising costs. This time, they are teaming with
Entra1, which owns international rights to the technology, and are courting five major tech firms for funding.
Cost vs. Benefit: Is $9 Billion Justified?
The price tag—estimated at $9 billion—covers everything from modules to operational infrastructure. Critics, including
the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), argue that this investment could outweigh returns,
especially compared to rapidly declining costs in solar and wind energy.
Concerns Still Linger
Even with advanced safety, SMRs still produce radioactive waste. The U.S. has yet to establish a long-term solution
for nuclear disposal. Moreover, global competition is heating up—Japan is investing in ultra-efficient solar technologies
that could challenge nuclear’s cost-effectiveness without the waste problem.
Expert Opinion: Is NuScale the Right Path?
While the NuScale reactor represents a leap forward in nuclear technology, it’s not a guaranteed success.
The concept of decentralized, factory-built nuclear power is promising—but the economics must make sense.
If modular nuclear power can offer reliable baseload energy at competitive prices, it could be a cornerstone
of America’s clean energy strategy. If not, it risks becoming a $9 billion detour.
Further Reading
For the original coverage and technical background, visit the source article on
Ecoticias: “$9bn Reactor Switched in America for the First Time”
.