Microreactors—compact nuclear power units typically generating 10 - 50 megawatts of thermal energy—are quickly becoming one of the most exciting developments in clean energy. Designed to be modular, mobile, and self-regulating, these small-scale reactors offer a flexible and carbon-free solution for a wide range of energy needs.

Why the Excitement?

Fast deployment: Factory-built and truck-transportable, microreactors can be installed and operational in weeks—not years.
Resilient power: Ideal for remote locations, disaster recovery, or grid-independent energy.
Carbon-free energy: Nuclear output without the emissions, offering a long-term alternative to diesel or coal.

Key Characteristics

Compact footprint: Designed to operate in limited space with minimal site infrastructure.
Self-regulating designs: Many models feature passive safety systems that require no active intervention.
Long refueling cycles: Some units can operate for 5–10 years before needing fuel replacement.
High-efficiency operation: Advanced reactors often use high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) and deliver both electricity and process heat.

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Potential Industry Applications

Mining & resource extraction: Power for remote, off-grid operations.
Military & national security: Reliable energy for bases and forward-operating installations.
Community energy: Consistent power for rural, Arctic, or island communities.
Industrial processes: Heat and electricity for hydrogen production, desalination, and district heating.

Current Landscape

Several private companies—such as Oklo, Ultra Safe Nuclear, and X-energy—are working with the U.S. Department of Energy and military stakeholders to develop demonstration models. Early deployments are expected later this decade, potentially redefining distributed energy.

Challenges to Watch

Regulatory pathways for new reactor designs are still developing.
Public perception of nuclear safety and waste must be addressed.
Fuel availability, especially for HALEU, needs to be scaled up to meet future demand.

As utilities, governments, and private industries seek reliable, clean, and local power options, microreactors offer a promising new tool. Their potential to complement renewables, enhance grid resilience, and deliver emissions-free energy—anywhere—makes them a technology worth watching.

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About Russ Hissom - Article Author

Russ Hissom, CPA is a principal of Utility Accounting & Rates Specialists a firm that provides power and utility cost of service and rate studies, expert witness, and consulting services, and online/on-demand courses on accounting, rates, FERC/RUS construction accounting, financial analysis, and business process improvement services. Russ was a partner in a national accounting and consulting firm for 20 years. He works with electric investor-owned and public power utilities, electric cooperatives, broadband providers, and gas, water, and wastewater utilities. His goal is to share industry best practices to help your business perform effectively and efficiently and meet the challenges of the changing power and utilities industry.

Find out more about Utility Accounting & Rates Specialists here, or you can reach Russ at russ.hissom@uarsconsulting.com.

The material in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal or accounting advice provided by Utility Accounting & Rates Specialists, LLC. You should seek formal advice on this topic from your accounting or legal advisor.

Microreactors: Small in Size, Big in Potential