The increased risks of climate change are forcing communities to rethink how they meet their energy needs. In this project, we investigated the feasibility of integrating a small modular nuclear reactor (SMNR) at WPI for both research and power generation. During this investigation, we conducted interviews, directed a survey, and viewed carbon emissions data. By analyzing this information, we found that implementing an SMNR would benefit the institution by providing additional research opportunities and reducing overall emissions. These benefits would be achieved through the cogeneration of heat and electricity in a safe manner, by utilizing SMNR technology as soon as 2026, when it is predicted to be commercially available.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Coelho, Leonardo
• Williams, Declan
• Hagearty, Patrick
• Baker, Derek
• Dargie, Maxwell

Subject

• Sustainability
• Community
• Energy
• Environment

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• 70691
• E-project-071122-095721

Advisor

• Medich, David Christopher
• Rosbach, Derren

Year

• 2022

UN Sustainable Development Goals

• 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy
• 13 - Climate Action

Date created

• 2022-07-11

Resource type

• Interactive Qualifying Project

Source

• E-project-071122-095721

Rights statement

• In Copyright

Last modified

• 2022-12-20