SMRs near most nuclear power plants were elevated 6-10 years after startup, particularly for leukemia.

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The industry and the Energy Department say that would make SMRs a good choice for small utilities.

CNN: U.S. backs project for small nuclear reactors

"The SMRs are without a doubt going to be more expensive than even large reactors, " he said.

CNN: U.S. backs project for small nuclear reactors

The watchdog said SMRs were a "key indicator of quality in healthcare" and that the case of Stafford Hospital was proof of this.

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Unlike current designs, the units -- shorthanded as SMRs -- are designed to be installed underground instead of being located inside towering concrete buildings.

CNN: U.S. backs project for small nuclear reactors

Will any utility really think it makes sense to field ten SMRs with ten control systems and ten safety systems rather than one big PWR?

ECONOMIST: The prospects