Microgrid Modeling with Small Modular Reactors: Decarbonizing University Campus Microgrids through Optimal Deployment of Nuclear Power Reactors

This report explores the decarbonization of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) campus microgrid through the optimal deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). The primary objective is to assess the technical and economic feasibility of integrating SMRs, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), and thermal storage into the existing campus microgrid. The study evaluates various scenarios, including the impact of heat storage, carbon tax, SMR ramp rates, installation costs, and preheating and precooling strategies on the microgrid's performance. The findings demonstrate that SMR integration significantly reduces carbon emissions while maintaining a reliable and cost-effective energy supply. Key results show that under high carbon tax scenarios, SMRs can contribute to up to a 63.5% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to the baseline configuration. The Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE) analysis suggests that although the initial costs are higher with SMRs, the long-term benefits in terms of decarbonization and energy resilience make them a viable option for the UIUC microgrid. The report concludes with recommendations for future work to enhance the deployment and optimization of advanced nuclear technologies within campus microgrids.