소형모듈형원자로(SMR)의 조기 시장 진입을 위한 법적·제도적 지원방안

As part of efforts to address the climate crisis, nuclear energy is emerging alongside renewable energy sources. Among these, Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are being highlighted as a blue chip in the energy market due to their diverse applications, including not only electricity generation but also industrial and transportation uses. In light of these prospects, major countries are pushing forward various support activities, such as promoting R&D and streamlining regulations, to secure market competitiveness and accelerate the early development and deployment of SMRs . In particular , the United States is pushing forward multiple support laws and policies to assist private sector demonstration projects with bipartisan backing. In comparison, South Korea has announced higher-level policies for SMR research and development but has yet to move beyond support for R&D projects. This paper identifies issues, such as the permitting system for large-scale nuclear reactors, that may hinder the rapid market entry of SMRs. Furthermore, the paper proposes institutional improvements for the timely application of SMRs in various sectors (e.g., distributed power, thermal utilization, maritime use ), such as specifying support projects for early commercialization in the Nuclear Promotion Comprehensive Plan, establishing legal frameworks like special laws, and activating research consortia.