This document serves as a high-level introduction to coal repowering with nuclear energy (also known as coal power plant repurposing, or coal-to-nuclear transitions) and a directory of useful resources for those looking to dive deeper into the topics discussed herein. It presents the key concepts, opportunities, and challenges associated with this energy transition, and provides readers with solid foundations and condensed information, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of this subject matter. It is intended for a diverse range of stakeholders interested in exploring coal repowering with nuclear energy, and is meant to foster informed decision-making, strategic planning, and meaningful discussions that contribute to coal repowering efforts. Policymakers, industry stakeholders, researchers, community leaders, potential customers, and interested individuals will find a concise overview of coal repowering to help navigate the multifaceted aspects of this energy transition and the extensive body of literature already available.
In July 2023, the Nuclear Innovation Alliance (NIA) released two new Deployment Maps that showcase scheduled deployments of North American advanced reactors design across the United States, Canada, Europe, and Asia. Alongside the release of the two Deployment Maps, NIA also release an updates of their “Advanced Nuclear Reactor Technology: A Company Compendium” and their “Advanced Nuclear Reactor Technology: A Primer”. These releases were accompanied by a Zoom media briefing event. The NIA's new and updated reports provide information, resources and insights into advanced nuclear technology innovation and commercialization. They should serve as resources for investors, reporters, policymakers, regulators and others who want to learn more about advanced nuclear technologies and the key players building this industry.
This primer provides basic information on advanced reactors to help the public and stakeholders understand the promise of innovative nuclear technologies. Dozens are under development around the world; this primer focuses on those in the United States and Canada.
This document was last updated in July 2023.