The Rolls-Royce Micro-Reactor features a high-power density, allowing it to reliably, flexibly, and sustainably meet diverse operational demands with adjustable power and heat output.Â
Importantly, the Micro-Reactor’s scalable design ensures easy transport by rail, sea, and space, making it a versatile and credible power source for various applications.
The Micro-Reactor offers a multitude of opportunities, including:
– Developing a new national capability with significant export potential and advancing world-leading technology.
– Driving the energy transition and achieving net zero goals in Defence, while securing access to advanced nuclear technology.
– Delivering long-lasting, clean energy to isolated communities and alleviating pressure on existing infrastructures.
– Providing a safe, off-grid power solution adaptable to any environment.
– Ensuring continuous and reliable energy supply to remote locations and supporting industries with heavy power demands in meeting their clean energy and Net Zero commitments.
– Enabling persistent, resilient power and propulsion for space exploration, supporting surface power for lunar bases, and operating safely in the harshest environments.
The Rolls-Royce Micro-Reactor will provide reliable, autonomous energy solutions to multiple markets. Providing zero-emission power, our advanced nuclear technologies support many global Net Zero targets, solving energy dependence across many industries. https://t.co/rVosZQjvW3 pic.twitter.com/4y76v8EGC7
— Rolls-Royce (@RollsRoyce) June 21, 2024
Difference between a Micro-Reactor and a Small Modular Reactor
Micro-reactors and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are both nuclear technologies within the Rolls-Royce portfolio, but they serve different purposes and operate on distinct scales. Micro-reactors, designed for mobility, generate between 1 and 10 megawatts of power. Their compact size allows them to be transported and deployed to various locations as needed. In contrast, SMRs are intended for stationary use, producing around 0.5 gigawatts of power. These reactors require a fixed site approximately the size of two football fields to operate.