Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are a promising solution for powering data centers. The Department of Energy (DOE) is investing significantly in the overall nuclear industry and Rare Innovation is working with innovators in the space who are funded by the SBIR/STTR program.
Below we explore why SMRs are a great fit for data centers and how they can provide a sustainable, secure and cost-effective source of energy for this critical infrastructure.
- Reliability: Data centers are critical infrastructure that require a reliable and constant source of power to operate. SMRs are designed to provide a consistent and stable source of power, which is essential for the smooth operation of data centers. With their small size and high levels of automation, SMRs are less prone to failures and breakdowns, which helps to ensure the reliability of data centers’ power supply.
- Sustainability: Data centers consume vast amounts of energy and are significant contributors to global carbon emissions. SMRs can help to reduce the carbon footprint of data centers by providing a cleaner source of energy. SMRs run on nuclear fuel, which produces no greenhouse gas emissions and has a much smaller carbon footprint compared to fossil fuels.
- Security: Data centers store vast amounts of sensitive information and require secure power supplies to protect against cyberattacks and other security threats. SMRs are highly secure and are designed to be tamper-proof, which helps to ensure the safety and security of data centers’ power supply.
- Cost-effectiveness: Data centers require large amounts of energy to operate, and the cost of energy is a significant part of their operational expenses. SMRs are a cost-effective source of energy as they have a small footprint, which reduces the costs associated with construction and operation. Furthermore, the high levels of automation of SMRs result in lower operational costs and increased efficiency.
In conclusion, SMRs are a great fit for data centers and provide a sustainable, secure and cost-effective source of energy. With their reliability, sustainability, security, and cost-effectiveness, SMRs are an ideal solution for powering data centers and helping to ensure the smooth operation of this critical infrastructure.
