In response to the need to decarbonize, more and more regions are considering nuclear energy as a reliable option for generating carbon-free baseload power. Small modular reactors (SMRs) and other advanced reactors offer greater safety profiles and the ability to address energy needs beyond electricity production. The first SMR design was recently certified by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the company, NuScale, has an anchor customer already. The Inflation Reduction Act, growing interest in hydrogen as a fuel and the recent COP27 meeting are laying a platform for a new global growth in nuclear energy. Interest in SMRs is growing due to their enhanced safety profile and ability to provide thermal energy for steam and hydrogen production, making these reactors a potential technology of choice for global decarbonization.

Pillsbury and JEPIC-USA are pleased to co-host a discussion on SMRs and their role in the energy transition. Jeffrey Merrifield, former presidential appointee to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and international thought leader on nuclear power, will discuss the prospects. JEPIC-USA nuclear analyst Yuji Fukuda will provide an overview of Japan’s current climate for adopting interest in SMRs.

Speakers:
Jeffrey Merrifield, Partner, Pillsbury
Yuji Fukuda, Nuclear Chemistry Analyst, JEPIC-USA

Moderator:
Audrey Taucher, President, Taucher International