Assessing Grid Reliability for Optimal Integration of System-Integrated Modular Advanced Reactor Technology (SMART) for Kenya: A Case of the Nairobi Distribution Network

The integration of advanced nuclear technologies like the System-Integrated Modular Advanced Reactor (SMART) offers a transformative approach to enhancing grid reliability in developing countries. This study focuses on the Nairobi distribution network in Kenya, a critical region characterized by an evolving energy mix of geothermal, hydro, solar, and wind power sources, comprising 220 kV and 132 kV transmission lines feeding 66 kV, 33 kV, and 11 kV distribution lines to various load centers. Using ETAP 22 simulation software, the research evaluates the impact of SMART integration through three scenarios: baseline operation, grid compensator-only operation, and SMART-SMR integration. Key reliability indices such as the System Average Interruption Frequency Index (SAIFI), System Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI), and Expected Energy Not Supplied (EENS) were analyzed. Results reveal that integrating a 100 MW SMART reactor reduces SAIDI by 2.8% (5.0433 h/customer-year) and SAIFI by 5.1% (0.0516 interruptions/customer-year), while maintaining voltage profiles within 98.21–98.91% of nominal. This analysis bridges gaps in prior research by demonstrating SMART’s ability to stabilize power grids in emerging economies, providing critical insights for policymakers aiming to achieve reliable and sustainable energy systems.