Nuclear Reactors for Home Use: A Practical Future or Science Fiction?

As concerns over energy sustainability grow in the face of an aging grid, homeowners are increasingly exploring alternative sources of power. One potential source that is gaining traction is the use of small modular reactors (SMRs) – nuclear reactors adapted for home use. A notable development came in the late 2000s with Toshiba’s introduction of their 4S SMR, designed for easy operation, compact size, and robust safety features.

The core question to explore is: could nuclear reactors for home use become a commonplace solution for residential power needs in the future?

This episode of “Smart Home on the Range,” hosted by Tod Caflisch, delves into the topic with a deep dive into the history, evolution, and current state of SMRs for home use.

Tod also discusses…

  • The development and features of Toshiba’s 4S SMR.
  • The resurgence in SMR technology, with new designs from companies like New Scale Power, Rolls-Royce, and General Electric.
  • The potential for a decentralized and resilient energy grid through shared SMR-generated power.

Tod Caflisch embarked on his smart home journey about seven years ago. With his wife Debbie, they continue to research and implement various smart home technologies, keeping a keen eye on emerging trends and possibilities.

Follow us on social media for the latest updates in B2B!

Image

Latest

bullying
Addressing Bullying Through Prevention and Connection
September 9, 2025

School Safety Today podcast, presented by Raptor Technologies. In this episode of School Safety Today, Dr. Amy Grosso speaks with Dr. Melissa Mariani to explore school bullying prevention strategies, highlighting whole-school approaches, early intervention, and the power of positive climate in creating safer learning environments. KEY POINTS: Bullying erodes both physical and emotional safety,…

Read More
career journey
Career Growth Is Nonlinear: Move Beyond the Ladder and Lead Your Career Journey with Authenticity and Well-Being
September 9, 2025

Career development no longer follows the predictable “ladder” of past decades. A 2024 Gallup analysis revealed that younger workers are increasingly disengaged from traditional career paths and instead seek purpose, flexibility, and balance in how they define success. Careers today move sideways, backward, and forward—more like a lattice than a ladder—requiring resilience, adaptability, and…

Read More
personal narrative
Tell Your Story and Build Equity Through Personal Narrative
September 9, 2025

AI is reshaping workplaces at an unprecedented rate, making communication skills a key differentiator for leaders and teams. The ability to craft and share a compelling story directly influences trust and opportunity in meetings, client pitches, and internal updates. Many professionals still avoid the spotlight, and Chapman University’s 2024 Survey of American Fears found…

Read More
Technician
Passing the Torch: Why the Skilled Trades Must Build a Culture That Protects Technician Wisdom
September 8, 2025

The skilled trades are facing a demographic cliff. The reality is that far fewer people are entering the trades than leaving, creating a widening gap that threatens the stability of critical infrastructure across the U.S. At the same time, younger generations are bringing different expectations around work-life balance, culture, and purpose. As a result, service…

Read More