The energy transition has led to China and Thailand joining forces to develop a clean energy source to combat climate change. China has made the latest scientific discovery that could lead to an energy revolution. In its quest for cleaner energy, the country has opted for nuclear energy, developing a new small nuclear reactor called Small Modular Reactor (SMR). This technological breakthrough has been welcomed by the so-called “extreme energy”. The implementation of this type of reactor would be a breakthrough in the scientific community, as well as cooperation between countries, which shows the willingness to achieve an energy geopolitics.
Small Modular Reactor (SMR)
The struggle to achieve the cleanest, most powerful and efficient energy has all the countries of the world at work. However, it is undeniable that when it comes to technology, China is always one step ahead. In fact, it has happened again. It has announced that it has discovered a very powerful and safe new source of energy, based on nuclear power. It is the Small Modular Reactor (SMR), a small nuclear reactor containing a compact and highly advanced system. Named Linglong-1, it has been developed in the province of Hainan. It is the first commercial model, so China will soon test this new technology beyond its borders.
The main characteristics of the SMRs are the following:
- They produce up to 300 megawatts of electricity. This is equivalent to one third of the capacity of a nuclear power plant.
- It produces less energy but is safer and more flexible.
- It has an integrated design. In a compact module it includes the fuel system and steam generation.
- Even if they are shut down or have no power supply, they can continue to operate.
- Only 1km is required for emergency planning.
The fuel required for their operation is uranium, which is widely used. SMRs can operate 24 hours a day without the need to stop for refueling. It is obvious that the production is lower, but given its size, it is a breakthrough in the world of clean nuclear energy.
Cooperation with Thailand
Thailand is considering different clean energy options, specifically SMR, in its energy transition process. This has been made known through the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT). With the evident decline in the use of fossil fuel-based energy, the country sees the need to look for other energy sources. They are leaning towards clean, safe and efficient energy, which is why they have turned to nuclear power. Among their options is green hydrogen (which is gaining more and more prominence in the rest of the world), but SMRs are winning the battle. Thepparat Theppitak, the governor of EGAT, has stated that the use of this new technology would ensure sustainable and affordable energy for Thailand.
The future of SMR
Thailand has openly declared to China its interest in being the first country to test its new energy technology. Despite the other clean energy options, the country has decided that its energy future will be based on SMRs, so it is waiting for China’s decision. On the other hand, the Asian giant wants to export its new energy model. It is aware that SMRs are in the early stages of development, but that the manufacturing costs do not outweigh the benefits they generate. The SMR model offers a lifetime of operating costs, 10 years of performance and very low emissions.
Once again, China has positioned itself ahead of the rest of the world, generating a new clean, efficient, low-cost and low-emission energy model. We just need to give it a little time to see its implementation and if it really fulfills everything it promises. It would undoubtedly be a before and after in the world of clean energy.
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