SMRs for Replacing Coal: Opportunities and Challenges for Small Modular Reactors

Many countries are working to phase out coal while keeping energy systems reliable and affordable. Small modular reactors (SMRs) could offer a practical path forward — potentially leveraging existing coal sites, workers, and infrastructure to provide stable, low-carbon power.

This webinar follows the launch of the NEA report SMRs for Replacing Coal: Opportunities and Challenges for Small Modular Reactors. The report explores how SMRs can help regions with coal plant sites transition to low-carbon energy, the technical and economic challenges involved, and the policies needed to make it happen. Join energy experts as they discuss where SMR-to-coal replacement makes the most sense, what barriers remain, and how international collaboration can support the transition.