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
News
Newsletter: EU CBAM, MDI growth, and other chemical insights
In the July 2026 edition, we examine how carbon regulation, portfolio optimization, and emerging technologies are reshaping the chemical industry. The EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is increasing cost pressure on emissions-intensive imports and accelerating the shift toward lower-carbon supply chains, while evolving chemical regulations continue to influence compliance and sustainability strategies. Meanwhile, investments, […]
SAF Tracker
2026 June SAF Tracker highlights – #88
Here are the latest highlights from ADI’s SAF Tracker: The full newsletter along with archives and databases are available to SAF Tracker subscribers.
News
Utility capital projects & 2026 energy trends
Utility capital projects are facing mounting delays and cost pressures in 2026, even as AI-driven demand fuels record capex. Meanwhile, the upstream oil and gas market is stabilizing around a normalizing shale cost curve, bulk liquid storage operators are shifting toward capability-driven growth, and the energy transition is exposing critical minerals bottlenecks that are pushing […]