This paper explores the paradigm shift in nuclear energy generation from large, centralized nuclear power plants towards

small modular reactors (SMRs), in response to the evolving economic, safety, and environmental challenges faced by the

nuclear industry. For over 70 years, nuclear power has been a cornerstone of electricity generation, off ering a low-carbon,

reliable, and cost-eff ective solution. However, the traditional model of large-scale nuclear reactors has encountered signifi -

cant barriers, including high fi nancial risks, stringent safety concerns, and a lack of adaptability to smaller electrical grids,

and changing energy markets. With over 70 types of SMRs currently under development globally, this study reviews several

prominent models to assess their general characteristics and potential advantages. Through simple physical and economic

models, the paper evaluates the impact of reducing reactor size on effi ciency, safety, and cost, highlighting the shared traits

and innovations across diff erent SMR designs. The fi ndings indicate that SMRs could address many of the limitations of

conventional nuclear power, off ering more fl exible, scalable, and economically viable options for electricity generation.

This paper fi nally tries to identify key technologies and strategic considerations essential for their successful deployment in

a rapidly transforming global energy landscape.