Calibrating the Operation and Maintenance Costs for SMRs

• In Event: Innovating Technology, Communication, and Governance – The Case of SMR

Abstract

Operation and maintenance (O&M) costs are sometimes overlooked during the technology selection phase of building new nuclear reactors. Generally, the primary focus of bids is the capital cost of the reactor. We argue that O&M costs are instead an important part to consider, as, after the amortization of the construction costs, they are the ones that influence the cost of electricity produced by the plant the most for the rest of its lifetime. Our work is focused on understanding the O&M costs of nuclear reactors and staffing needs and how they can vary depending on fleet management strategies. We also explore how the inclusion of different reactor designs in the same fleet can be an advantage (or not) for O&M costs and staffing. Our calibration methods and results would be very useful for assessing different options for SMR development and deployment.

Author

• Isabel Naranjo De Candido, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
  Presenting Author