Publisher: OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA)
Year: 2025
Title: SMRs for Replacing Coal: Opportunities and Challenges for Small Modular Reactors
URL: https://www.oecd-nea.org/jcms/pl_7732/smrs-for-replacing-coal
This NEA study assesses the global potential for deploying small modular reactors (SMRs) at existing coal power plant sites. It examines the technical, policy, and workforce conditions under which coal-to-nuclear repowering could deliver reliable, low-carbon electricity while preserving jobs and existing energy infrastructure.
Based on stakeholder engagement across the coal and electricity sectors, the report identifies the main enablers and barriers for SMR deployment at coal sites, including siting constraints, regulatory readiness, licensing timelines, supply chains, workforce skills, and public acceptance. It estimates how much global coal capacity could be technically transitioned to nuclear power and highlights which countries are best positioned to move from coal to nuclear in the near, medium, and long term.
For Repower, the report reinforces that coal-to-nuclear repowering is a realistic and scalable pathway. By reusing coal sites and retaining skilled workforces and grid connections, SMRs can support deep emissions reductions while maintaining system reliability and supporting a just transition for affected communities.