VITO explores the role of SMRs in industry and the Belgian energy system
VITO/EnergyVille is contributing to SMART-C-Hub and NuPowerBE, two research projects that have jointly secured €4.8 million in funding through the tenth call for projects of the Belgian Federal Energy Transition Fund. Together, the projects are investigating the role that small modular reactors (SMRs) could play in industrial clusters and the Belgian energy system in the longer term.
SMRs and thermal storage for industrial heat
SMART-C-Hub focuses on industrial clusters. The project examines whether the combination of an SMR and thermal energy storage can provide reliable, affordable and low-carbon heat to industry. Using data from existing industrial clusters, the concept will be assessed in terms of safety, flexibility and sustainability, among other criteria.
Partners include VITO/EnergyVille, Ghent University, North Sea Port Flanders, John Cockerill Renewables, Engie Electrabel and Storabelle.
Analysis at Belgian scale
NuPowerBE takes a broader perspective, analysing the potential role of SMRs and other advanced nuclear technologies across both industrial clusters and the national energy system. The project will assess their significance for industrial value chains and their impact on security of supply, the electricity system, the environment and society.
Partners include Tractebel Engineering, VITO/EnergyVille, Janson, ICEDD, Ghent University, KU Leuven/EnergyVille, UCLouvain, ULiège, VKI, the Belgian Nuclear Forum and Pole Meca Tech.
Through these projects, VITO/EnergyVille and its partners are exploring the potential place of new technologies in a low-carbon and reliable energy system over the longer term. By scientifically assessing their potential, economic aspects and environmental impact, the projects will contribute to the knowledge base needed for future research, innovation and energy policy development.
