Development of an SMR-induced environmental input-output analysis model – Application to Saskatchewan, Canada

As an emerging power generation technology, small module reactors (SMRs) have the potential for development with its contribution to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In this study, an SMR-induced environmental input-output model (SEIOM) is proposed to simulate the environmental consequences of SMRs development and provide suggested schemes for SMRs deployment. A case study of Saskatchewan, Canada is conducted to demonstrate the proposed model. Specifically, key industries with high reduction potentials are first identified in the study; then, the power supply for three energy-intensive industries is assumed to be replaced by power generated from SMRs at various penetration degrees. The corresponding changes in direct and indirect GHG emissions and the interrelationships among multiple economic sectors associated with GHG flows are analyzed. The results indicate that there are close interdependences between various sectors and a small group of sectors could play a big role in GHG emission mitigation. In Saskatchewan, "Electricity power generation, transmission and distribution", "Oil and gas extraction", "Potash mining" and "Petroleum refineries" are key sectors for realizing GHG emission reduction targets. Meanwhile, it is estimated that replacing the power supply for "Oil and gas extraction" sector with SMRs would contribute the most to the reduction in GHG emission, which is much more than those for "Potash mining" and "Petroleum refineries" sectors. This study is expected to provide a basis for supporting the initiative and application of SMRs.