A simulator designed to show how nuclear power plants can be used for applications beyond generating electricity has been successfully demonstrated in the United States.
Westinghouse Electric Company and Idaho National Laboratory (INL) say the simulator is the first of its kind, and could lead to nuclear power plants enjoying a more versatile– and profitable – future.
A nuclear plant’s thermal energy can be used to make clean hydrogen, and heat homes and businesses by distributing heat from a central source called district heating, they say.
Researchers from the US Department of Energy (DOE) and the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission tested the simulator during a workshop at INL last month. The simulator is said to have performed successfully, paving the way to develop training for plant operators for complex conditions.
Luca Oriani, Westinghouse president of long-term operations, said: “This new simulator is made to incorporate all the variables needed to study complex scenarios involving thermal energy production, which can increase profits for nuclear operators.
“We are proud that our long-standing partnership with INL will help utilities identify new revenue streams and improve training capabilities.”
Bruce Hallbert, director of the LWRS Programme, added: “Beyond-the-grid products allow nuclear reactors to be ready for flexible operation when wind or solar power causes baseload plants to curtail operations.
“Research at INL’s Human System Simulation Laboratory, supported by industry, develops procedures for nuclear plants to dispatch power and thermal energy to non-grid applications, such as hydrogen production via electrolysis. This ensures nuclear plants can provide clean, carbon-free energy while supporting the grid and aiding US industries in decarbonisation.”
The collaboration with INL leverages Westinghouse’s industry-leading simulation expertise, which includes the design, operation, and maintenance of full scope simulators for PWR, BWR and heavy water reactors around the world.
In addition, Westinghouse designs simulators as targeted training tools that are used in nuclear and industrial applications. INL’s work on this simulator was performed within the US Department of Energy’s Light Water Reactor Sustainability (LWRS) Programme.
Image credit: Westinghouse Electric Company
Read next: Oslo constructs blueprint for a net zero world
Are you a building professional? Sign up for a FREE MEMBERSHIP to upload news stories, post job vacancies, and connect with colleagues on our secure social feed.
