International Conference on Small Modular Reactors and their Applications - Side Events

Side Events

Welcome to the Side Events page of the International Conference on Small Modular Reactors and their Applications.

SMRs: Women as Game Changers

Tuesday, 22 October 2024
12:30-13:45
BR-B/M1, M-Building

Small modular reactors (SMRs) are gaining significant interest due to their potential advantages in terms of cost, scalability, and adaptability. They can serve regions with smaller grids which rely on fossil fuel plants or intermittent renewable sources, providing access to clean electricity to more households around the world, especially in developing countries. At the same time, the increasing number of SMR startups or projects provides professional opportunities with significant responsibilities in innovative environments, faster than in the traditional nuclear industry.

• How does nuclear innovation impact lives of women around the world, including their perceptions and support of nuclear energy?
• How do these opportunities contribute to closing the gender gap in the nuclear field?

The panel organized by WiN IAEA will consist of women and men representing different views on

• social aspects
• industry role models
• perception/ acceptance of nuclear energy

The side event is open to all interested participants. Lunch bags, courtesy of the U.S. Department of Energy, will be available upon registration through the button below (limited availability). 

IAEA Activities on Small Modular Reactors

Wednesday, 23 October 2024
12:30-13:45
New location: BR-B/M1, M-Building

Addressing the growing interest in SMR technologies, the IAEA offers a number of mechanisms to support Member States in their efforts to raise awareness in key aspects of SMR development and deployment. With the participation of all relevant departments and offices, the IAEA Platform on SMRs and their Applications coordinates the Agency efforts to strengthen  support for Member States in the wide topical spectra from technologies to legal frameworks and safety security and safeguards.

The panel will feature discussions among representatives of the IAEA and Member States to share their cooperation experiences in the area of SMR development, deployment and oversight.

SMRs and Microreactors: Towards a Sustainable and Equitable Future (Young Generation Event)

Wednesday, 23 October 2024
17:45-20:15
BR-B/M1, M Building

This multigenerational, multidisciplinary panel will delve into the opportunities and challenges posed by SMRs and microreactors. Initially, it will examine how these reactors facilitate rapid deployment (modularity), cost-effectiveness (equity), and versatility for various applications (electric and non-electric) across diverse settings (suburban and urban), aiding in our journey towards a net-zero future. Subsequently, it will address the myriad challenges associated with these reactors, encompassing licensing, safeguards, fostering a diverse global workforce, and restructuring regulatory frameworks.

This event will feature a panel discussion, an open Q&A session, and a reception.

The SMR Regulators’ Forum: Celebrating a Decade of Shaping the Future of Nuclear Safety

Thursday, 24 October 2024
12:30-13:45
BR-B/M1, M Building

The SMR Regulators’ Forum (SMR RF) is an independent ‘first-of-a-kind' regulator-to-regulator entity facilitated by the IAEA. It provides a platform for experienced regulatory bodies (currently, 12) to work together to develop consensus-based common positions on challenging regulatory and technical issues related to SMRs. In 2024, the SMR RF celebrates its 10^th anniversary, with the satisfaction of seeing the fulfilment of its objectives and the renewed motivation to further contribute to nuclear safety worldwide.

This event will feature an introduction to the SMR RF and its activities, a panel discussion reflecting on the Forum’s achievements, challenges and plans, an open Q&A session, and a reception.