Non-electric applications exist but are rare
SANE aims to facilitate path towards their potential
Nuclear energy is more than just electricity. The SANE project aims to unlock the potential of non-electric applications of nuclear power, providing reliable energy solutions for a wide range of industrial and societal needs. From hydrogen production to desalination, these innovative uses are redefining how nuclear energy can be used to address pressing challenges and diversify the role of nuclear power in our future.
Electricity
1 700 TWh/year
Extra low carbon electricity production to be deployed by 2050.
80 GW
European Nuclear capacity to be replaced by 2050 (end of life)
Hydrogen
> 20 Mt H2/year
REPower EU Market Estimate for 2030
1 000 TWh/year
Equivalent additional clean electricity demand
Industrial Heat
~ 1 250 TWhth H2/year
Iron - Steel, Non-metalic minerals and chemicals heat demand in EU26
> 45% market
Heat < 400°
District Heat
~ 1 250 TWhth H2/year
Current district heat demand in EU26
> 2/3 fossil-fueled
Assets to be retrieved and replaced in the coming two decades
Advancing Non-Electric Uses of Nuclear Energy with Safety and Innovation
The Safety Assessment of Non-Electric Uses of Nuclear Energy (SANE) project is leading the charge in understanding and implementing innovative applications of nuclear power beyond electricity. As the energy landscape becomes more competitive, nuclear power has the unique capability to offer diverse, localized solutions for large-scale energy needs. SANE aims to explore these potential uses, assess their safety, and support their integration into existing and future reactors.
This project focuses on two primary areas: retrofitting industrial applications to current nuclear power plants and designing novel reactors for non-electric uses. With an emphasis on safety, SANE investigates both the technical aspects of these applications and the importance of risk communication, especially during abnormal situations, such as those experienced during the conflict in Ukraine. By understanding and communicating the risks, the project aims to build trust and awareness among various stakeholders.
Non-electric uses of nuclear energy - such as heat production for industrial processes or hydrogen generation - represent a new frontier in energy diversification. The SANE project is dedicated to ensuring that these innovative solutions are implemented safely, responsibly, and effectively, contributing to a sustainable and versatile future for nuclear power.
Work plan & Resources
The work in SANE is organized into six interconnected Work Packages (WPs):
- Mapping of potential future non-electric uses of nuclear energy
- Safety of nuclear reactors designed for non-electric uses
- Performance and safety of non-electric end-use cases
- Risk communication
- Dissemination, exploitation, and communication
- Project management
Mapping of Potential Future Non-Electric Uses of Nuclear Energy
This section focuses on potential future applications of nuclear energy beyond electricity production, assessing their economic and technical feasibility. Applications include the use of nuclear energy for synthetic fuels, hydrogen production, desalination, or as propulsion for ships and space missions.
Safety of Nuclear Reactors for Non-Electric Purposes
The goal is to identify the safety standards needed for new types of nuclear reactors that won’t generate electricity but might provide heating, for example. We compare these with the standards for traditional power plants and suggest possible adjustments.
Performance and Safety of Non-Electric Applications
Here, we assess how safely and efficiently a nuclear reactor can be coupled with various non-electric applications, such as district heating or hydrogen production. We look at possibilities for connecting with small modular reactors and large power plants, focusing on a case study of heating urban areas.
Risk Communication
This work package focuses on how to effectively and clearly communicate the risks associated with non-electric applications of nuclear energy, particularly with small modular reactors used for heating. We develop strategies that also consider the views of the public and stakeholders, drawing from crisis communication experiences around Chernobyl.
Dissemination and Education
This part of the project ensures that results reach both the professional and general public. In addition to the website, we organize workshops, a summer school, and training sessions for students and young researchers, publish articles, and share results at conferences. Our goal is to maximize the project’s impact.
Project Management
The final work package focuses on managing and coordinating the project to ensure everything proceeds according to plan and that the objectives outlined in the grant agreement are met.
