Small Modular Reactors Face Challenges in Scaling and Standardization

Wed, 06 May 2026 14:37:00 +0200

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are often promoted as a quick solution for expanding nuclear power, but the evidence suggests they are not ready for broad commercial deployment. While nuclear power already provides significant low-carbon electricity, SMRs face structural challenges that make their large-scale rollout difficult. The main promise of SMRs — smaller units, faster factory-based construction, and lower capital risk — depends on repeated production of a few standardized designs. However, over 120 SMR technologies now exist globally, creating fragmentation that undermines learning curves and cost reduction. Real projects, such as Ontario's Darlington BWRX-300, China’s Linglong One, and the Natrium project in Wyoming, often exceed the original SMR size, rely on state or strategic support, and are tied to existing nuclear infrastructure. Key bottlenecks, like high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) supply, licensing, and institutional costs, remain unresolved. Remote and niche app