Scoping study on the potential of SMRs for the Belgian industries

Introduction

The industrial sector in Belgium accounts for about 25% of the total energy consumption and is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. As global and national climate targets become more stringent, the decarbonization of industrial energy use has become a critical challenge. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), as a new implementation strategy for nuclear power plants, offer promising potential for providing reliable, low-carbon energy at scales suitable for industrial applications.

This thesis aims to explore the current energy demands of Belgian industries, evaluate the potential fraction of this demand that can be decarbonized, and assess the feasibility of supplying this demand through various types of SMRs. Furthermore, the thesis will investigates whether industrial clusters with similar energy profiles can be efficiently served by specific SMR designs, thereby optimizing deployment strategies.

Work plan

The first part of the thesis will perform a literature study to assess the energy demand of different Belgian industries and identify areas where energy consumption can be decarbonized.

From this data, the potential of different types of SMRs will be evaluated by determining which fraction of the industrial’s energy requirements can be supplied by SMRs. The thesis will identify the optimal coupling between a certain reactor technology and industrial process.

Finally, an assessment will be conducted on the spatial distribution of energy-intensive industries, aiming to identify clusters of industries whose energy demands could be met by specific types of SMRs.

Research questions:

• What is the energy need from the Belgian industries, and which fraction can be decarbonized?
• Which fraction of this energy need can be supplied by various types of SMRs?
• Are there clusters of industries that can be serviced by the same SMR type?