Small Modular Reactors: Current Status and Challenges Discussed at Kyoto Club Webinar

Experts explored costs, safety issues, and the future role of SMRs in the energy transition.

Also available in Italian  

On 2 February 2026, Kyoto Club hosted a webinar on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), featuring M.V. Ramana of the University of British Columbia and Tim Judson of the World Nuclear Industry Status Report.

Ramana highlighted key challenges for nuclear energy, including high costs, radioactive waste management, and safety concerns, noting that no fully proven technological solution has yet emerged.

Judson provided an overview of the U.S. context, where reactors average more than 43 years in age and no SMR has yet received full approval despite significant public support for the sector.

The webinar offered an opportunity to reflect on the potential role of nuclear power in future energy systems, amid ongoing economic, technological, and regulatory uncertainties.

M.V. Ramana — “Small Modular Reactors: Current Status, Open Issues”

Tim Judson — “Small Modular Reactors: Current Status, Open Issues in the U.S.A.”

Access the webinar replay here