The advantages of the proposed large nuclear reactors, rather than Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) for Australia

A critical factor in making a massive energy investment involves risk mitigation. This is achieved by working with proven technology. For Australia, this involves selecting a nuclear reactor fleet that has a proven track record. SMRs are being developed but require implementation and successful operation, prior to being considered in any energy mix for Australia.

Restrictions on nuclear fuel regulations and availability also need to be considered. High Assay Low Enrichment Uranium (HALEU) fuel that is required for most SMRs is enriched with U235 to between 5% and 20%. This exceeds Low Enrichment Uranium (LEU) fuel that has an enrichment limit of 5% and is used existing nuclear power plants around the world.

Higher levels of nuclear fuel enrichment need to be addressed globally, by the International Atomic Energy Agency. HALEU fuel is not currently permitted for domestic power production. This isn’t an issue for Australia under the Coalition’s proposal as SMRs are not being proposed and consequently there is no need for HALEU fuel.