What are the latest innovations and technologies in nuclear power generation and safety?

The fact that SMRs will be factory built is quite important to driving down the cost to build. The current array of reactors around the world were built very site specific with very few similarities between plants. The exception to this may be the French reactors but they were still constructed at the site and subject to much variability in site conditions, labor force and supply chain; all factors of production that lead to delays, re-engineering and cost overruns. Most of this uncertainty and variability can be controlled and eliminated with factory build transportable and reversible modules.

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) indeed represent a significant shift in nuclear power generation. Their scalability and flexibility allow for a more distributed approach to nuclear energy, reducing the need for large, centralized power plants. Additionally, the integration of SMRs with renewable energy sources can help create a more resilient and diverse energy grid. However, it's crucial to note that while SMRs promise cost-effectiveness, the economic viability will largely depend on the ability to standardise and mass-produce these reactors.

Advanced fuel cycles indeed hold great promise for the future of nuclear power, particularly in addressing key challenges such as waste management and resource availability. The thorium-uranium cycle, for instance, is noteworthy as thorium is more abundant and less weaponisable than uranium. However, it's important to note that these technologies are still under development and their commercial viability and safety implications are yet to be fully understood. The regulatory, economic, and social acceptance aspects also need to be considered.

Passive safety systems are indeed a significant advancement in nuclear power safety. Their reliance on natural phenomena for operation reduces the risk of human error and system failure due to power loss. However, it's important to note that these systems are not a panacea. They must be meticulously designed and tested to ensure they function as intended in various scenarios. Additionally, while passive systems enhance safety, the industry must continue to invest in active safety systems and operator training to ensure a comprehensive approach to nuclear safety.

Highlighting some ideas from Arthur Turrell's "The Star Builders", mined lithium Fusion has the fuel supply to energise humanity for 2,000 years, seawater extracted lithium for 30 million years and the more advanced deuterium fuel source would last us over a billion years. This energy potential is clean and long-lasting, but also a key to huge advancements in other fields. A further off future of fusion reactors could bring a flight to mars down from its current 450 days to just 2.5 days (Start planning your vacations!). While it's not yet there, we're in a really good place for game changing energy generation. Most reputable industry experts expect grid-connected energy by 2050 and hopefully sooner with increased investment.

Fusion power indeed holds great promise for clean and abundant energy ... The current fusion projects like ITER, DEMO, and SPARC are primarily research projects, with the aim to prove the feasibility of fusion power. The path to commercialisation is still uncertain and will require significant further advancements.