Abstract
Smaller sized nuclear reactors were instrumental during the pioneering days of
commercial nuclear power to facilitate the development and demonstration of early
reactor technologies and to establish operational experience for the fledgling nuclear
power industry. As the U.S. embarks on its �second nuclear era,� the question
becomes: Will smaller sized plants have a significant role in meeting the nation�s
needs for electricity and other energy demands? A brief review of our nuclear history
is presented relative to plant size considerations, followed by a review of several
commonly cited benefits of small reactors. Several �deliberately small� designs
currently being developed in the U.S. are briefly described, as well as some of the
technical and institutional challenges faced by these designs. Deliberately small
reactors offer substantial benefits in safety, security, operational flexibilities and
economics, and they are well positioned to figure prominently in the second nuclear
era.