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Small modular reactors (SMRs) are set to play a pivotal role in the future of global nuclear power, with projections indicating they will contribute approximately one-quarter of new nuclear capacity by 2050. This forecast comes amid growing electricity demands driven by the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence, data centers, and the acceleration of electrification efforts worldwide. As a result, nuclear investment is experiencing a resurgence, with SMRs emerging as a key technology due to their unique advantages over traditional reactors. The rise of SMRs can be attributed to several factors, including their smaller physical size, reduced initial capital requirements, modular construction approach, faster deployment timelines, and enhanced adaptability to diverse environments. These characteristics make SMRs particularly attractive for applications such as powering hyperscale data centers, supporting energy-intensive industrial operations, and supplying reliable electricity to remote regions where grid access is limited. The technology's versatility has led to increased interest from both public and private sectors, with multiple SMR projects currently undergoing licensing, demonstration, or early construction stages. Despite these advancements, widespread commercial deployment of SMRs is anticipated to gain momentum during the 2030s. According to the World Nuclear Association (WNA), the global installed nuclear capacity could reach 1,446 gigawatts (GW) by 2050. To achieve this target, an additional 1,043 GW of nuclear capacity will need to be added to the current operational fleet of approximately 403 GW. Of this required expansion, around 260 GW is expected to come from SMRs, accounting for roughly one-quarter of all planned capacity additions. The financial implications of this nuclear expansion are substantial, with estimates suggesting that achieving these goals will necessitate approximately $6 trillion in cumulative investment across the nuclear value chain between 2025 and 2050. A significant portion of this funding, around $5.3 trillion, is projected to go toward reactor projects, with $3.5 trillion allocated for large conventional nuclear reactors and approximately $1.5 trillion earmarked for SMRs. This investment reflects the industry's confidence in the potential of SMRs to meet evolving energy demands while addressing concerns related to cost, scalability, and environmental impact. The push for nuclear expansion is further supported by the increasing urgency to reduce carbon emissions and transition to cleaner energy sources. With climate change mitigation becoming a central policy objective for many nations, nuclear power is being reconsidered as a viable solution for long-term baseload electricity generation. SMRs, in particular, offer a promising pathway to expand nuclear capabilities without requiring the extensive infrastructure associated with larger reactors. As the global energy landscape continues to evolve, the role of SMRs in shaping the future of nuclear power is likely to grow. Their ability to address some of the limitations of conventional reactors, combined with their alignment with modern energy needs, positions them as a transformative force in the industry. While challenges remain, including regulatory hurdles, technological maturity, and public acceptance, the trajectory of SMR development suggests they will play a significant part in meeting the world’s growing energy demands.