China has more than 20 small nuclear reactor start-ups. Should the US worry?

China is witnessing a surge in small modular reactor (SMR) start-ups, with over 20 companies actively developing the technology, according to Hu Po, founder of China-based start-up Weilan NuEnergy. The surge in SMR development coincides with the surge in artificial intelligence (AI) energy demand, which has led to increased investment in nuclear power worldwide.

In China, SMR development has been fueled by the country's 40-year-long tradition of industrial development and system cultivation, giving it a robust supply chain and manufacturing base. In the United States, SMR development is gaining momentum with major players transitioning from design to construction and customer projects. SMRs offer several advantages over traditional nuclear reactors, including lower costs, simpler operation, and flexibility, making them well-suited for smaller grids.

Chinese SMRs are expected to be globally competitive due to their comprehensive supply chain and advanced manufacturing capabilities. For instance, the Fuqing 5 reactor, China's first Hualong One model to enter commercial operation globally, set a record for construction time and cost, being 20 to 30 percent lower than foreign competitors.

SMRs' compact modular design enables them to be built more affordably and are better suited for smaller grids. In the US, SMR development is gaining momentum as AI-driven computing power increases exponentially.