Norman Foster Advocates for Industrialized Nuclear Power in 'Electrical Revolution'
During the World Nuclear Symposium in London, architect Norman Foster discussed the global energy landscape, noting that climate change targets have not been met over decades, with fossil fuels still dominating. He characterized the current era as an "electrical revolution," following the 19th-century Industrial Revolution. Foster expressed concerns about the environmental impact of some renewable energy projects, stating that an over-reliance on solar and wind could threaten ecosystems. He proposed that small modular reactors (SMRs) could offer a carbon-free alternative, requiring significantly less land than large-scale renewable schemes.
Foster, a recent advocate for nuclear energy, cited micro-modular reactors (MMRs) as his entry point into the field. He described a container-sized MMR, paired with a co-generator, capable of powering a small town or community. He envisioned a future where small reactors could provide autonomy for urban developments, such as a project in Downtown Manhattan designed for 14,000 people. This led him to question why nuclear units are not industrialized and produced on a production line, similar to jet engines, to reduce costs and increase accessibility.
Drawing parallels with the evolution of the telephone system, Foster suggested that national grids could undergo a similar transformation. He observed that current perceptions often limit SMRs and MMRs to niche, remote communities, overlooking their potential to augment existing energy systems. Foster argued that the current grid infrastructure may struggle to cope with increasing demands from data centers and broader electrification, presenting an opportunity for emerging economies to adopt advanced nuclear solutions and bypass outdated grid models.
Foster underscored the growing demand for abundant, clean energy to ensure access to clean water, combat climate change, and support electrified transport. He stated that this "revolution" would require a combination of energy sources, including solar integrated into buildings and appropriately located wind power. He concluded that industrialized nuclear power has a critical role in augmenting existing systems and meeting future energy needs. Foster also mentioned his efforts to champion nuclear energy in policy-making circles and through courses at the Norman Foster Institute, which he indicated has influenced the policy of at least one nation.