Technical Working Group on Small and Medium Sized or Modular Reactors (TWG-SMR)
Background
The IAEA Technical Working Group on Small and Medium Sized or Modular Reactors (TWG-SMR) is an advisory group of high-level experts from Member States with interest in the development and future deployment of SMRs.
The TWG-SMR was established in 2018 to provide advice, recommendations and support to the IAEA for the programmatic planning and implementation related to technology development, design deployment and economics of SMRs that can be used for the production of electricity and/or industrial process heat in both expanding and embarking countries.
The members of the TWG-SMR are appointed by the IAEA Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Nuclear Energy for a fixed term of four years, following consultation with the respective national authorities and organizations.
Scope
The following technical areas are within the Scope of the TWG-SMR:
- Design, technology development and deployment of current small and medium-sized or modular reactor concepts, including microreactors;
- Programme assessment, systems analyses, research and development, design, construction, operation and maintenance
- Industrial standardization and harmonization, including codes & standards and generic user requirements and criteria; and more interface with safety regulations;
- Interdependence amongst advanced fuel cyles, fuel options and reactors designs;
- Techno-economics and socio-environmental assessment for near term deployments;
- Development of infrastructure to facilitate deployment of SMRs both for electric and non-electric applications; and
- SMRs for hybrid and/or integrated energy systems
Functions
The functions of the TWG-SMR are:
- To provide advice to DDG-NE on specific topics of relevance to the IAEA's programmatic activities
- To share information and knowledge on national and international programmes
- To contribute to the development and/or review selected of selected IAEA publications from the IAEA Nuclear Energy Series, assess existing gaps and advise on preparation of new publications or e-learning materials
- Upon request, to present to the Standing Advisory Group on Nuclear Energy (SAGNE) the key findings of the TWG meeting
- To share experience and advice on increasing the participation of young professionals and improving the gender balance in the nuclear sector
Membership
Members of the TWG-SMR shall be appointed by the Deputy Director General, Head of the Department of Nuclear Energy, following consultation with the respective national authorities or organizations.
Term Duration
4 years, 2022-2025