Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) has announced the construction of an initial version of a simulator at the KHNP Central Research Institute.
This simulator is designed to verify the operational suitability of the Innovative Small Modular Reactor (i-SMR), a key component of Korea’s nuclear energy strategy.
i-SMR: A Promising Nuclear Power Plant Design
The i-SMR is an integrated pressurized water reactor-type nuclear power plant with an electrical output of 170 MWe. It is currently under development, adhering to a comprehensive roadmap, with the objective of finalizing the standard design by the end of 2025 and securing standard design approval in 2028.
The i-SMR operation verification simulator will play a crucial role in assessing design and operation suitability. The insights derived from the simulator’s operation will be integrated into the standard design process.
Evolving Simulator Development: From Early Version to Standard Design Reflection
KHNP clarifies that the currently developed simulator is an early iteration that reflects the i-SMR’s concept and basic design. The concept and basic design were finalized at the end of the previous year, and the standard design phase is ongoing, with completion anticipated by December 2025.
Post-2025, the simulator will undergo updates to incorporate the finalized standard design, with the aim of completing the simulator in the first half of 2027.
Simulator’s Role in Verification and Approval
Once the simulator is fully developed, KHNP intends to utilize it for ongoing verification of the operational suitability of the i-SMR standard design. The verification results will serve as valuable supplementary data for the standard design approval process.
Shin Ho-chul, head of the KHNP Central Research Institute, emphasized the organization’s dedication to leveraging its extensive experience in developing large-scale nuclear power plant simulators, along with the expertise of KHNP researchers.
The goal is to create a high-fidelity simulator that contributes to the successful acquisition of i-SMR standard design approval.
International Collaboration: Exploring i-SMR Deployment in Indonesia and Jordan
KHNP has established Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with Nusantara Power in Indonesia and the Jordan Atomic Energy Commission to explore the potential introduction and construction of the i-SMR in their respective countries.
These MoUs outline cooperation in various areas, including joint research on economic feasibility and technology deployment, development of specialized local technology, and knowledge exchange in the nuclear field.
i-SMR as a Solution for Future Energy Demands
Jordan is actively considering the introduction of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) after 2030 to address anticipated increases in electricity demand. The i-SMR represents a potential solution to meet these future energy needs while ensuring operational safety and efficiency.