Information Forum and FAQ
What is an SMR?
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Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) are advanced nuclear reactors with a power generation capacity of up to 300 MWe per unit, approximately one-third of the generating capacity of conventional nuclear power reactors.
SMRs are:
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Small – They have a physical footprint that is a fraction of the size of a conventional nuclear power reactor.
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Modular – This allows systems and components to be factory-assembled and transported as a single unit to a site for installation.
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Reactors – They harness nuclear fission to generate heat for energy production.
This definition is provided by the IAEA: International Atomic Energy Agency.*
Is an SMR dangerous?
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IAEA: SMR designs are generally simpler than those of existing reactors, and their safety concepts often rely more heavily on passive systems and inherent safety features (such as low operating power and pressure). This means that no human intervention or external power or force is required to shut down the systems, as passive safety systems rely on physical phenomena such as natural circulation, convection, gravity, and self-pressurization.
In some cases, these enhanced safety margins eliminate or significantly reduce the risk of hazardous radioactive releases into the environment and public areas in the event of an accident.
Since the 1960s, France has chosen to develop a large-scale nuclear power fleet and is now embarking on its renewal through the EPR2 programme. This strategy has enabled France to benefit from an abundant supply of affordable, low-carbon electricity.However, the nuclear power fleet alone cannot meet all of the country's decarbonisation needs.With its SMRs, Jimmy addresses industrial heat requirements that cannot be met by the existing nuclear power fleet.
By building on proven technologies and the strength of France's nuclear industry, Jimmy contributes to the decarbonisation of industrial operations.
Jimmy's SMR has been designed to produce heat. However, by adding a turbine, we can also generate electricity for customers interested in cogeneration (the combined production of heat and electricity).
Our ambition is to have our first reactor operational in the early 2030s.
Safety is our top priority. Every stage of our projects is reviewed, monitored, and approved by the ASNR (French Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection Authority).
We work closely with its teams, as well as with the local authorities in the areas where our projects are being developed.Safety is not a constraint; it is our most valuable asset when developing a nuclear project. There can be no compromise when it comes to nuclear safety.
Our projects are currently being developed within the French regulatory framework, one of the most stringent in the world. Under this framework, the ASNR reviews and assesses every detail of our generator with the same level of rigour applied to an EPR reactor.
Jimmy's nuclear waste can be managed through France's existing waste management systems.In the short term, we will rely on existing solutions and infrastructure for nuclear waste storage. TRISO fuel particles will be stored in small containers in dry storage facilities before being vitrified and transferred to deep geological disposal facilities used by the French nuclear industry.
In the longer term, we are exploring the possibility of reprocessing these TRISO particles to maximise resource efficiency.We are working with the French National Agency for Radioactive Waste Management (ANDRA), which manages more than 90% of the radioactive waste produced in France each year.
