THE ROLE OF SMALL MODULAR REACTORS IN ARMENIA'S LOW-CARBON DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

The goal of the work is to identify the fundamental links between climate change and the development of atomic energy based on small modular reactors (SMR) and renewa­ble sources in Armenia. It summarizes the role of Armenia's energy sector in addressing climate change and the potential contribution of further nuclear energy development to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Some issues related to the problems and potential of atomic energy promotion in Armenia are also presented.

A comprehensive assessment of the potential role of SMR nuclear power development in Armenia in climate change mitigation strategies is presented. The article includes a brief description of Armenia's energy sector, as well as GHG emission reduction policies and measures. Technologies of modern generation corresponding to the conditions in Armenia are considered: nuclear technologies, combined cycle gas turbines, renewable energy sources, etc. Specific scenarios were developed and analysed to compare various low-carbon energy supply options (including nuclear power) under different support policy mechanisms. The MESSAGE software package developed by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA, IAEA) and provided free of charge to Armenia was used in the study. The future long-term strategy for the development of GHG emissions in Armenia was investigated, with an assessment of the impact of SMR on the environment. Nuclear power plays an important role in energy security and independence, including environmen­tal security. Current trends in nuclear power development, such as personnel education and training, reliability and safety of power grids, and investment in new nuclear reactors, are explored.