IAEA to Host First Conference on Small Modular Reactors in Vienna

Vienna: The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) announced it will host the inaugural International Conference on Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) next week, aiming to foster discussions on the rapid development and safe implementation of SMR technologies worldwide. According to Kuwait News Agency, the IAEA conference will be held from October 21 to 25 at the agency's headquarters in Vienna. This marks the first time the IAEA has dedicated a conference to the topic of SMRs, highlighting the growing interest and investment in this emerging technology. The conference will feature over 1,000 participants from 95 countries and 17 international organizations and NGOs, indicating a broad international focus on the potential of SMRs in the global energy landscape. IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi is scheduled to inaugurate the conference on October 21 at 14:00 (CET), with a ministerial keynote address from Ghana followed by a high-level panel discussion involving leading figures from industry and regu latory bodies. The conference agenda includes 44 technical sessions covering four main thematic areas: SMR design, technology and fuel cycle; legislative and regulatory frameworks; safety, security, and safeguards; and strategies to facilitate the deployment of SMRs. Additionally, the event will host five plenary sessions, four side events, and approximately 100 poster presentations, all aimed at fostering a comprehensive dialogue on SMRs. In a special session dubbed "Industry Night" on October 22, from 17:45 to 20:00, SMR developers will present their projects at various stages of development. This session will provide about 20 companies with an opportunity to engage directly with attendees on specific design-related topics, further enhancing knowledge exchange and collaboration opportunities. The IAEA has also planned for broader public engagement by livestreaming the plenary sessions on its website, allowing global stakeholders and the general public to participate remotely.