Hadron Energy Visits American Nuclear Society for 70th Anniversary
Hadron Energy Visits ANS in Orlando Florida for Winter Conference & 70th Anniversary
Attendees were full of energy at the American Nuclear Society Winter Conference hosted in Orlando, FL November 17-21st, 2024. The theme for the gathering was “Now Comes the Hard Part” and hundreds of nuclear professionals discussed commercialization strategies as well as technology advancements. Despite the snow promised, there was none in Orlando!
Small nuclear was a major topic of discussion as The Department of Defense shares their perspective on the clean energy source. At Hadron Energy, we learned about commercialization strategy, regulatory processes, recycling fuel, and more. We also were able to form invaluable connections during and after the event.
Source: American Nuclear Society
Small Nuclear Steals the Spotlight at ANS
The Department of Defense made many comments on why small nuclear is a high priority. Namely energy & national security, infrastructure resilience, and overall improvements to quality of life. These comments are very common throughout a variety of industries which can explain the high interest levels in smaller nuclear energy plants.
Similarly in our discussions with attendees, many were very passionate about the benefits of having small nuclear being commercialized. Applications for maritime, government, space, and industrial applications were of specific interest.
Source: Data Center University
What Opportunities Remain for Small Nuclear?
While optimism was prevalent, there are still opportunities to work through as an industry. The supply chain and licensing processes are areas which many hard working people are addressing. Strong support from both private and public sectors are paving the way for the nuclear industry to realize the momentum created by the need for clean and resilient energy.
Historically speaking, additional hangups for the nuclear industry are budget overruns and timelines. At Hadron Energy, we believe small nuclear will be able to address these once prominent issues. With smaller devices there are more efficient regulatory procedures, less moving parts, and more control over the supply chain. Small nuclear presents a compelling solution to these opportunities for growth in the sector.
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Approves Hermes 2 Construction Permit
Kairos Power has received approval to build the Hermes 2 reactor which is a significant step in advancing the next generation of nuclear technology. The facility will feature two 35 MWt molten salt-cooled reactors that will also include a shared power generation system. Hermes 2 will be the first Generation IV electricity producing reactor in the U.S. The reactor will provide crucial operational data to support the development of larger, commercial reactors in the future.
The NRC permitting process for Hermes 2 took place in under 18 months and finalized its safety and environmental evaluations in mid-2024. While construction may proceed, Kairos must still obtain an operating license before the plant can generate electricity. This announcement is a great success for the broader nuclear energy industry. As more reactors come online, permitting and bringing them to the market will become more efficient with time.
Source: World Nuclear News & Kairos Power
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