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@ Brunswick
2025-04-10 02:57:02A follow-up to nostr:naddr1qqgxxwtyxe3kvc3jvvuxywtyxs6rjq3qc856kwjk524kef97hazw5e9jlkjq4333r6yxh2rtgefpd894ddpsxpqqqp65wuaydz8
This whitepaper, a comparison of baseload power options, explores a strategic policy framework to reduce the cost of next-generation nuclear power by aligning Gen IV Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) with national security objectives, public utility management, and a competitive manufacturing ecosystem modeled after the aerospace industry. Under this approach, SMRs could deliver stable, carbon-free power at $40–55/MWh, rivaling the economics of natural gas and renewables.
1. Context and Strategic Opportunity
Current Nuclear Cost Challenges
- High capital expenditure ($4,000–$12,000/kW)
- Lengthy permitting and construction timelines (10–15 years)
- Regulatory delays and public opposition
- Customized, one-off reactor designs with no economies of scale
The Promise of SMRs
- Factory-built, modular units
- Lower absolute cost and shorter build time
- Enhanced passive safety
- Scalable deployment
2. National Security as a Catalyst
Strategic Benefits
- Energy resilience for critical defense infrastructure
- Off-grid operation and EMP/cyber threat mitigation
- Long-duration fuel cycles reduce logistical risk
Policy Implications
- Streamlined permitting and site access under national defense exemptions
- Budget support via Department of Defense and Department of Energy
- Co-location on military bases and federal sites
3. Publicly Chartered Utilities: A New Operating Model
Utility Framework
- Federally chartered, low-margin operator (like TVA or USPS)
- Financially self-sustaining through long-term PPAs
- Focus on reliability, security, and public service over profit
Cost Advantages
- Lower cost of capital through public backing
- Predictable revenue models
- Community trust and stakeholder alignment
4. Competitive Manufacturing: The Aviation Analogy
Model Characteristics
- Multiple certified vendors, competing under common safety frameworks
- Factory-scale production and supply chain specialization
- Domestic sourcing for critical components and fuel
Benefits
- Cost reductions from repetition and volume
- Innovation through competition
- Export potential and industrial job creation
5. Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) Impact
| Cost Lever | Estimated LCOE Reduction | |------------|--------------------------| | Streamlined regulation | -10 to -20% | | Public-charter operation | -5 to -15% | | Factory-built SMRs | -15 to -30% | | Defense market anchor | -10% |
Estimated Resulting LCOE: $40–55/MWh
6. Strategic Outcomes
- Nuclear cost competitiveness with gas and renewables
- Decarbonization without reliability sacrifice
- Strengthened national energy resilience
- Industrial and workforce revitalization
- U.S. global leadership in clean, secure nuclear energy
7. Recommendations
- Create a public-private chartered SMR utility
- Deploy initial reactors on military and federal lands
- Incentivize competitive SMR manufacturing consortia
- Establish fast-track licensing for Gen IV designs
- Align DoD/DOE energy procurement to SMR adoption
Conclusion
This strategy would transform nuclear power from a high-cost, high-risk sector into a mission-driven, economically viable backbone of American energy and defense infrastructure. By treating SMRs as strategic assets, not just energy projects, the U.S. can unlock affordable, scalable, and secure nuclear power for generations to come.