INTEGRATION OF SMALL MODULAR REACTOR INTO DYNAMIC POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS WHICH INCORPORATES MULTIPLE RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION SOURCES AND LOAD MANAGEMENT METHODS

Abstract

The relevance of this study is driven by the need to enhance the reliability and flexibility of power systems with a high share of renewable energy sources (RES), particularly wind power plants (WPP), whose operation is characterized by high variability and forecasting errors. The instability of RES output creates demand for additional balancing capacity and reserve technologies, which increases the cost of electricity and complicates the achievement of low-carbon development goals. Under these conditions, the role of small modular reactors (SMRs) becomes especially important as a source capable of combining baseload generation with flexible operational regulation. The purpose of the article is to develop scientific and practical principles for integrating small modular reactors into dynamic power systems with a high share of renewable energy sources, particularly wind power plants, while accounting for the specific features of generation forecasting and load management. The research methodology is based on a systematic analysis of the technical characteristics of modern SMRs, comparison of their load-following capabilities with conventional power units, application of forecasting models (dayahead, intraday, nowcasting), and the use of scenario planning methods. The study draws upon the generalization of international energy organization experience, analyses of national laboratory reports, and results of modeling hybrid power systems synchronized with SMRs and RES. The findings show that SMRs can compensate for short-term fluctuations in WPP output by regulating power with a gradient of 2–5 % of nominal capacity per minute, reduce the need for fast-response gas turbines or storage reserves, and increase the capacity utilization factor of the system by 10–15 %. The combination of SMRs with digital forecasting and dispatch systems ensures effective synchronization of generation with daily demand profiles and reduces the need for emergency reserves by 12–18 %. The conclusions demonstrate that SMRs can ensure the reliable operation of power systems with a high share of RES, reduce imbalances, decrease renewable generation curtailment, and lower system costs. However, challenges were identified, including the physical limitations of load-following modes, forecasting errors, lack of unified standards, and absence of economic incentives for flexible operation. Future research should focus on optimizing the SMR fuel cycle under regular load-following conditions, developing market mechanisms for flexibility rewards, creating unified operating standards, and modeling integration scenarios of SMRs with RES in varying proportions to determine their role in future low-carbon power systems.