Part 8/12:
Despite these setbacks, global interest in SMRs remains robust. Many countries see them as a strategic tool to promote low-carbon energy systems. The European Union, for example, has adopted a dedicated SMR strategy. France’s utility EDF intends to bring 30 SMRs online by 2050, while Finland and the UK are actively exploring local installation sites. Sweden’s Prime Minister recently announced plans to build new nuclear reactors in the country, emphasizing the role of SMRs.
In the United States, the Biden administration has prioritized nuclear innovation, with hopes of deploying at least three SMRs by next year. NuScale, after its initial project suspension, has developed a revised design that received approval in May, signaling renewed optimism.