Technology
—Small Modular Reactors Are New Technology Nuclear Power—
—Compact, flexible and cost-effective alternative to traditional large-scale reactors—
—Advanced Safety Mechanisms—
By Dr. Brett Lenz (February 13, 2025)
As the global demand for energy continuously rises, countries around the world are grappling with the need to transition from fossil fuels toward sustainable, reliable, and efficient energy sources. In the Pacific Northwest, abundant hydroelectric power has been the backbone of energy production for more than 70 years: while it is one of the cleanest, reliable sources of energy, it is no longer enough to meet the demand, and the energy deficit now requires new thinking. A gradual transition from standard energy sources such as fossil fuels and hydropower to nuclear energy presents itself as one of the most promising solutions to meet these needs while at the same time reducing carbon emissions and countering climate change.
Energy consumption across North America is increasing. Utilities in Washington state suggest that total power produced may be as much as 2.5 times less than current needs with power hungry data centers driving much of that demand.
The International Data Corporation reports that data center loads may constitute between 30% and 40% of all new electricity demand by 2030, with the surge in demand.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) workloads are projected to lead to a net increase in data center capacity, with an annual growth rate of 44.7%, reaching 146.2 terawatt-hours by 2027, a staggering figure.
While common public opinion may view data centers as simply undergirding our shopping and entertainment habits, in fact, the advent of AI in the form of LLM has led to much of the energy deficit. And while entertainment and shopping are fundamentals to our well-being, LLM trained on the power-hungry data centers hold promise to cure cancer, diabetes and new economic opportunity in relatively short time. The need for new sources of power production has never been more critical.
While hydroelectric, solar and wind in the Pacific Northwest remain as clean energy sources, these alone cannot meet our current demand. Supplementing with fossil fuels is not the answer.
The world’s dependence on fossil fuels has led to many environmental and economic challenges, with the burning of coal, oil, and natural gas creating greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change and its associated adverse effects. Sea level rise, extreme weather, and declining air quality are linked to fossil fuel energy, while their finite nature has led to volatility in energy prices, creating economic risk.
In contrast, nuclear energy offers an alternative that can reduce dependence on fossil fuels and supplement other clean energy sources. It is stable and abundant with minimal carbon emissions. Where renewable energy sources like hydroelectric, solar and wind are popular given their low carbon condition, they are intermittent and reliant on the weather, nuclear power yields consistent, predictable energy output.
Innovations in nuclear technology are addressing many of the traditionally difficult issues associated with the industry. One such advancement is the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). These reactors offer a compact, flexible, and cost-effective alternative to traditional large-scale reactors. SMRs can be deployed in remote locations and integrated into existing energy grids with minimal infrastructure adjustments or implemented as stand-alone sources of energy.
To support its increasing energy needs, the Washington-based company Microsoft plans to incorporate nuclear energy production into powering its data centers. At the same time, utility districts in central Washington state are considering the feasibility of adding nuclear energy to their production portfolios.
Despite its many advantages, the transition to nuclear energy is not without challenges.
One of the primary concerns associated with nuclear power is the issue of radioactive waste disposal. Spent nuclear fuel remains hazardous for thousands of years, necessitating secure storage solutions. While advancements in nuclear waste management, including deep geological repositories and recycling technologies, have shown promise, public apprehension over nuclear waste is a significant hurdle.
Safety is another major concern. The historical accidents at Chernobyl and Fukushima serve as stark reminders of the risks associated with nuclear power. However, it is important to recognize that these incidents were largely due to outdated technology, insufficient safety measures, and external natural disasters. Modern nuclear reactors incorporate advanced safety mechanisms, including passive cooling systems and fail-safe shutdown protocols, significantly reducing the likelihood of catastrophic failures.
The transition to nuclear energy requires a strong policy commitment from state and federal lawmakers who must implement regulatory guidelines to ensure safety and efficiency while incentivizing investment in our energy infrastructure.
High initial infrastructure costs might be mitigated by tax or other financial incentives. Beyond regulatory acceptance, a shift in public acceptance is also crucial to nuclear development. Public awareness campaigns and education efforts can help dispel misconceptions about nuclear energy, highlighting its benefits.
The coming transition to nuclear energy is an essential step in addressing the world’s growing energy needs while mitigating climate change. With its high energy density, low carbon emissions, and technological advancements, nuclear power stands as a viable solution to replace fossil fuels and to supplement the existing clean sources of Pacific Northwest energy. While challenges such as waste disposal, safety concerns, and high initial costs remain, ongoing innovations and policy support can pave the way for a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. By embracing next generation nuclear energy, we can ensure a reliable power supply while safeguarding our ability to live comfortably and productively for generations to come.
Dr. Brett Lenz is a Licensed Engineering Geologist in Washington state. He is an energy consultant with more than two decades experience with Public Utilities, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission licensing and environmental and archaeological compliance. Brett also serves as a Cascade Party Board Member, representing districts 4/5.(Image: Design Pics / Alamy Stock Photo)
CASCADE PARTY of WASHINGTON
PO Box 28004
Seattle, WA 98118