Small Modular Reactors Surge Globally: New Dashboard Reveals Expanding Deployment

September 22, 2025

The global landscape of nuclear energy is witnessing a significant shift with the accelerating development and deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). A newly released report from the Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) highlights a substantial increase in SMR designs progressing through licensing and securing funding, driven by rising electricity demand, energy security concerns, and national decarbonization goals.

Key Takeaways

74 SMR designs are under active development worldwide, with 51 in pre-licensing or licensing stages across 15 countries.
An 81% increase in SMR designs securing funding commitments has been observed since the previous NEA report.
Seven SMR designs are already operating or under construction, indicating a strong pipeline for first-of-a-kind deployments.
Strategic drivers for SMR adoption include meeting demand from data centers, enhancing energy security, and achieving carbon emission reduction targets.

Global Momentum Behind SMRs

The latest edition of the NEA Small Modular Reactor (SMR) Dashboard reveals a robust expansion in SMR development, with 74 designs analyzed for advancements in licensing, siting, financing, supply chain readiness, engagement, and fuel. NEA Director-General William D. Magwood IV stated that the strategic drivers for SMR deployment are intensifying, making them a core component of energy strategies in an increasing number of countries.

Progress in Licensing and Funding

Currently, 51 SMR designs are involved in pre-licensing or licensing processes across 15 countries. Furthermore, approximately 85 active discussions are underway between SMR developers and potential site owners globally. Since the 2024 edition of the NEA SMR Dashboard, there has been an 81% increase in SMR designs that have secured at least one funding source or announced funding commitments, signaling growing investor confidence.

Diverse Designs and Future Prospects

The diversity of SMR designs offers a wide range of options for potential customers but also presents challenges for regulators and the industrial supply chain. The report identifies opportunities to streamline global supply chains, promote standardization, and enhance the economic viability of SMRs. While seven designs are already operating or under construction, a strong pipeline of projects is progressing towards initial deployment.

Addressing Challenges and Opportunities

Key challenges for SMR deployment include the qualification and licensing of new technology concepts and innovative fuels, such as high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU), which is required by a majority of the designs reviewed. Additionally, the novelty and diversity of SMR designs necessitate careful analysis and validation to ensure safety. Waste management planning and readiness for end-of-life cycle management are also critical enabling conditions that require further assessment.

The NEA has also launched an interactive digital platform for its SMR Dashboard, providing direct access to its SMR database and allowing for more frequent updates to assessments. This initiative aims to help policymakers, regulators, investors, and industry professionals navigate the rapidly evolving nuclear energy sector.