An Analysis of Physics Limited Dispatch of Nuclear Renewable Integrated Energy Systems using Deep Reinforcement Learning and Dynamic Modelling
Previous approaches to dispatching nuclear integrated energy systems (NIES) have focused on the profitability and flexibility of these systems to operate on energy grids with highly variable pricing. Because of the complexity of these systems to model and design, less focus has been given to ensuring these dispatch strategies are physically achievable. It is imperative […]
Nuclear Thermal Energy Storage Configurations for Industrial Combined Heat and Power Supply: Conceptual Study and Engineering Designs
The industries examined in this report primarily rely on moderate-temperature heat provided by gas- or coal-fired boilers and combined heat and power (CHP) plants, delivered through standard process steam systems. High-temperature energy demands are often industry-specific and typically exceed the capabilities of high-temperature gas-cooled reactors (HTGRs). While it is technically feasible to replace process steam […]
A Multidisciplinary Approach to Integrated Energy Systems: Advanced Nuclear Plants with Thermal Storage for Dynamic and Flexible Operation in Diverse Markets
Energy supply, distribution, and demand are continuously evolving in accordance with the integration of new power generation sources. In the United States, there is a progressive shift toward incorporating fluctuating energy sources such as wind and solar into the energy mix, alongside the distributed generation. Simultaneously, we are seeing a revolution in consumer technologies such […]
Transient Modelling of HTGR Thermal Load Follow in Modelica
The ability of nuclear power plants to load follow electrical power demand is particularly important as we move to higher variable renewable (VRE) energy production on low carbon energy grids. High temperature gas reactors (HTGRs) are capable of load following by adjusting thermal output, but their high temperatures and thermal inertia significantly impact the power […]