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.