Zero: The Climate Race Build small, grow fast: Can small modular reactors live up to the hype?
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Aug 14, 2025 Rachel Slaybaugh, a partner at DCVC and former nuclear engineering professor, dives into the promising world of small modular reactors (SMRs). She discusses how these smaller, cost-effective reactors could revolutionize energy production. The conversation explores their current deployment in Russia and China, challenges in the West, and the role of government in fostering innovation. Additionally, Slaybaugh addresses public perceptions of nuclear energy and the potential for SMRs to enhance energy resilience while tackling climate change.
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Bridge Design Eases Early Deployment
- The BWRX-300 is a pragmatic bridge SMR because it is similar to existing boiling water reactors.
- Using familiar designs speeds deployment by leveraging existing supply chains and expertise.
Governments Should Target Proven Tech
- Governments must participate to vet nuclear designs and target realistic demonstrations.
- Support programs should focus on technologies with the most operational experience to reduce risk.
Three Core Advanced Reactor Families
- Advanced SMR designs cluster into sodium fast, high-temperature gas, and molten salt families with distinct safety trade-offs.
- Each family leverages different coolants and fuel forms to manage heat and failure modes.