A Critical Assessment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): Viable Green Energy Source for Australia or Extreme Sovereign Risk?

The Australian opposition's recent push to consider Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as a viable green energy source is fraught with significant risks and uncertainties. This white paper critically examines this proposal, assessing it against a cradle-to-grave framework, industry best practices, due diligence, and sovereign risk. By highlighting several critical issues, this paper questions the feasibility and prudence of adopting SMRs in Australia. Key concerns include the lack of proven waste treatment solutions, the failure of Synroc technology, and the absence of a safe long-term global disposal solution for radioactive components.