Small floating nuclear power plants with ABV reactors for electric power generation, heat production and sea water desalination

High reliability, radiation and ecological safety, acceptable effectiveness, long operating cycle of nuclear fuel without reloading allow considering self-contained power sources based on small floating nuclear power plants (5-10 MWe) as a promising option for power supply of remote areas located far from developed power supply systems. Radiation and nuclear safety of a small floating nuclear power plant (FNPP) corresponds or even exceeds the requirements of international codes and standards. System ecological indices are beyond comparison. Small NPPs are a Hi-Tec product, which makes them commercially attractive and very competitive. Floating NPP is delivered to energy consumers in a finalized state. Consequently, this provides high fabrication quality and minimum construction period. Selection of the site is simplified: FNPP requires ∼2.5 m deep fairway. FNPP is operated at the same site continuously for 10-13 years without refueling and repairs, whereas the total service life is 40 years. Comprehensive maintenance and repairs, including refueling and rad waste handling, are carried out at specialized enterprises (maintenance centers) every ∼10-13 years. 'Green lawn' concept is implemented after power module disposition. (author)