The Peter Zeihan Podcast Series

SMRs Are Giving Nuclear Power a Facelift || Peter Zeihan

Oct 30, 2024

Nuclear power is shaking off its negative reputation with the rise of small modular reactors (SMRs). These innovative solutions promise a reliable, carbon-free energy future. The discussion dives into the challenges of aging infrastructure and public perception while highlighting investments from tech companies. There’s optimism surrounding SMRs as they could revolutionize how we think about energy, all against a backdrop of potential regulatory hurdles.

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Quick takeaways

Despite its historical reputation and public skepticism, nuclear power is a dependable and carbon-free energy source facing regulatory and technical challenges.

The growing collaboration between big tech companies and small modular reactors (SMRs) signals a vital shift towards sustainable energy solutions for modern infrastructure.

Deep dives

Challenges and Opportunities in Nuclear Power

Nuclear power presents both significant benefits and substantial challenges that impact its adoption in the United States. While it is a reliable and carbon-free energy source, public support is low, partly due to geopolitical influences and concerns over nuclear waste management. The U.S. lacks a large-scale repository for waste, leading to storage at nuclear facilities, which can create safety concerns. Addressing these regulatory and technical hurdles is crucial for the expansion of nuclear capacity, including potential changes in legislation to enable broader infrastructure development.

The Future of Nuclear Power and Small Modular Reactors

4min

The Future of Nuclear Power and the Role of Small Modular Reactors

2min

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Nuclear power has a bad reputation, and I get it...Chernobyl, nuclear waste, and outdated infrastructure. Buttt, it’s a reliable, carbon-free energy source that might be getting a much needed facelift soon-ish.

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