우리나라의 SMR 개발 및 상용화 가능성

According to the IAEA, there are currently 84 types of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) being developed worldwide as of 2022. The growing interest in SMRs stems from the urgent need to address climate change, a critical challenge for humanity. Among the various conditions for the commercialization of SMRs, safety and economic viability are essential. For pressurized water SMRs, ensuring safety involves actively incorporating the concept of inherent safety. To secure economic viability, a key requirement is minimizing construction time through modular manufacturing in factories. Since the APR1400, South Korea has developed and completed a phased strategy for inherent safety systems. In this area, we are already among the world’s best. We also possess some of the world’s top manufacturers for reactor modules, which are crucial for economic viability. Therefore, the only remaining question is not whether we can succeed, but when.