This report summarises the state of technical development and Australian context for small modular reactors (SMRs) in 2024. It finds that SMRs could potentially form part of Australia’s future low-carbon energy mix but as an emerging technology, in 2024 the cost and operational performance of this technology has not yet been demonstrated.

This report argues that running just one nuclear power station in Queensland would displace an average of 45,000 Queensland household solar systems every day because nuclear plants are inflexible and need to consistently export energy.

The author of this report argues that nuclear-powered submarines will be central to Australia’s defence strategy in contingencies prioritised by the Defence Strategic Review, such as defeating threats of invasion or stand-off attack, countering a naval blockade, and supporting the regional balance of power.

Proposals to introduce nuclear power to Australia need to be seen against the backdrop of the massive cost overruns that have plagued reactor construction projects over the past decade This report examines the impracticality of plans to introduce nuclear power to Australia in a timeframe commensurate with climate goals and the closure of most or...

The Australian Government, alongside its AUKUS partners, is implementing an ambitious and complex plan for Australia to field nuclear-powered, conventionally-armed submarines. In this paper, the authors assess whether the AUKUS Optimal Pathway is the best way forward to realise Australia’s strategic interests.