Part 7/17:
A core challenge in nuclear development lies in supply chain and manufacturing complexity. Traditional large reactors are assembled on-site from thousands of components, often leading to delays, quality issues, and cost overruns. The stick-built, bespoke approach is susceptible to schedule slips and inflated budgets due to labor inefficiencies and regulatory delays.
Kugelmass argues for leveraging standardized, factory-fabricated modules that can be transported easily and assembled swiftly. This modular approach reduces construction time, enhances quality control, and improves scalability. It also opens the door to decentralized energy grids, where numerous small reactors provide distributed power close to consumption centers, reducing grid stress and increasing resilience.