ADI examined where small modular reactors could realistically supply power and steam across refineries, LNG terminals, and large chemical complexes with high baseload demand. The analysis combined asset‑level screening, operator interviews, and comparisons across SMR design classes to test fit against gas‑fired alternatives. Particular attention was paid to siting constraints, operating reliability, and adoption hurdles rather than theoretical economics alone.
The client
U.S. national laboratory
The situation
Operators faced uncertainty over nuclear economics, permitting, and operational fit.
ADI’s contributions
Primary operator research
Conducted structured interviews across oil, gas, refining, LNG, and chemical operators.
Proprietary asset screening
Screened assets using ADI criteria on energy intensity and steam demand.
Technology fit assessment
Evaluated SMR designs against industrial power and reliability needs.
Strategic prioritization
Identified segments with the strongest adoption logic and policy alignment.
Key outcomes
- Prioritized segments and asset types most likely to adopt SMRs, guiding partnership and outreach strategy.
More insights
Article
EU methane rule delay: A tactical retreat or climate setback?
The European Union (EU) Methane Regulation is known for its strict methane emissions transparency requirements for foreign oil and gas imports, and has driven methane emissions monitoring and reporting efforts, especially among oil and gas players serving the EU market. Under Article 28 of the EU Methane Regulation, importers are required to demonstrate that fossil […]
Article
Notes from the Gas to Grid Summit
Gas-to-grid infrastructure has received limited attention amid rapid growth in data-center power demand. Pipelines, storage, fuel delivery, generation, and grid connections determine when new load can receive reliable power. ADI Analytics and Energy Conference Network launched the inaugural Gas to Grid Summit to examine this part of the value chain. Participants included midstream operators Williams […]
Article
Post-auto growth in lubricants
HF Sinclair plans to separate its Lubricants & Specialties business, retire its 15,600-barrel-per-day Ontario base oil refinery, and replace internal production with long-term supply agreements. Similar portfolio activity is visible across the industry: BP sold a controlling interest in Castrol, Saudi Aramco acquired Valvoline’s global products business, and private-equity-backed distributors continue to add local businesses. […]