Site Selection, Vendor Evaluation, and Deployment of Nuclear Microreactors in Remote Mining Operations

Abstract

This thesis presents a comprehensive framework for site selection and vendor selection for deploying nuclear microreactors in remote mining areas to facilitate decarbonization efforts. The methodology involves utilizing data gathered through various internal sources and employing software tools such as HOMER Pro Grid Optimization software and Python for analysis. The framework aims to optimize settings based on economic, carbon emissions, and capacity considerations by simulating various energy generation and storage components. The study also incorporates data from publicly available sources on micromodular reactor (MMR) companies to create MMR models for optimization calculations. Through a detailed analysis of simulated data and questionnaire scenarios, the framework evaluates factors such as power requirements, high temperature processes, charging stations, baseload size, peak electricity demand, peaking factor, proximity to town, and rail infrastructure. The proposed framework offers a systematic approach to identifying suitable pilot sites for MMRs in remote mining locations.