Small Modular Reactors: A Possible Path Forward for Nuclear Power

WASHINGTON, Oct. 16, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today, The American Security Project released a report on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and the opportunity for nuclear power in the coming years.

SMRs are nuclear power plants that are intentionally designed to be about 1/3 of the size or less of conventional large reactors. These small designs present a variety of benefits over large reactors, including advantages on cost, safety and flexibility. With the nuclear industry facing enormous difficulties in building new large reactors, SMRs offer a viable path forward for next-generation nuclear power.

Brigadier General Stephen A. Cheney USMC (Ret.), CEO of the American Security Project said: "The use and production of energy is a U.S. national security issue.  In the era of energy dependence on fossil fuels, it becomes imperative that we seek out alternatives that are cleaner, more efficient, and provide reliable power to meet our nation's needs.  We can no longer afford to be reliant on one type of energy.  A robust multi-dimensional power industry is necessary to enhance our energy security and combat climate change.   It is urgent that we invest and create a long term strategic plan to set out our future energy choices."

ASP Board Member, Former EPA Administrator and Governor of New Jersey, Christine Todd Whitman: "Nuclear power must play a big role in America's energy future. It is one of the rare issues that garners bipartisan support, and for good reason. Nuclear power is clean, it creates jobs, and it provides reliable electricity at affordable prices. ASP's report on small modular reactors offers one approach to ensuring that this important source of clean energy continues to play a part in our energy future."

Nick Cunningham, ASP Policy Analyst and author of the report: "This report is intended to illustrate how the U.S. can move into the next generation of nuclear power. SMRs offer unique benefits over large reactors – advantages in cost, safety, and flexibility. As much of our nuclear fleet is nearing retirement, SMRs can play a significant role in powering our economy for decades to come."

You can find the report by clicking here.

About the American Security Project: The American Security Project is a non-profit, non-partisan public policy and research organization dedicated to fostering knowledge and understanding of a range of national security issues, promoting debate about the appropriate use of American power, and cultivating strategic responses to 21st century challenges. For more information, visit www.americansecurityproject.org.

SOURCE American Security Project

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