With a growing realization that nuclear energy is necessary to achieve decarbonization in the electric generation utility industry, and for major process heat applications, 2020 looks like a year where action based on this concept will see more significant developments for nuclear energy worldwide.
Developers of advanced nuclear reactor designs are offering new revenue models that go beyond the level cost of electricity (LCOE) to offer heat as the primary output of their plants. Heat can be used to generate electricity but it can also be used for process heat for industry, especially chemicals, production of hydrogen, and desalinization. The combination of revenues from these heat streams will reposition the business case for advanced reactors as a result.
