Process and Economic Model Integration for Flexible Nuclear Power Generation

The increased share of intermittent renewable energy sources (e.g. wind, solar) has economically strained the base power sources (e.g. coal, gas, nuclear) that are required to maintain a reliable energy grid. Nuclear power plants are especially susceptible as they require high capacity factors to offset the significant capital and operational expense. Efforts are being made to develop software to assist nuclear plants with evaluating investment options to adapt to the evolving electricity grid and remain profitable sources of reliable power. However, more research in this area is needed to bring such software into commercial use. The project team proposes to develop a software package to aid nuclear plant owners with the design and operation of the on-site integration of energy storage and alternative product processes. Hydrogen as an alternative product will be a focus as this is an effective way to meet expected future demand of the green carrier while also maintaining operation of nuclear power to supply electricity when intermittent sources cannot meet demand. To accomplish this, the project team intends to merge and build upon preexisting software tools. In Phase I, the core structure of the software package will be developed to integrate energy storage and alternative product process models with economic optimization tools in a graphical user interface. The economic optimization tools will include a hydrogen and ammonia market and distribution analysis. Lastly, the team will apply the software package in the evaluation of energy storage and alternative product integrations with nuclear plants to facilitate stakeholder engagement. Successful development of this software package will create a valuable resource for nuclear plant owners to remain competitive. Continued operation of nuclear plants preserves jobs and contributes towards a cost effective, reliable, and clean energy grid to serve the public.