Analysis of Social Acceptance of SMRs as Distributed Energy Resources under the Prospective Locational Marginal Pricing in Korea

As the introduction of Locational Marginal Pricing (LMP) gains momentum to address regional imbalances in power supply, the role of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as decentralized energy sources is increasingly emphasized. This study evaluates the social acceptance of SMRs in comparison with traditional distributed energy resources, such as solar and wind power, to identify the relative standing of SMRs in the evolving energy landscape. Utilizing a Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE), we quantify the preference gap between different energy sources and analyze how providing information on electricity bill benefits under the LMP system serves as a nudge to shift public perception. Furthermore, the study employs the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM) to estimate the willingness to accept (WTA) for SMR hosting and identifies the specific policy attributes—such as safety enhancement, economic incentives, and regional development—that are most effective in improving acceptance. The findings provide critical insights into the strategic policy interventions required to enhance the viability of SMRs. By identifying which attributes most significantly influence public choice, this research offers a practical framework for policymakers to design effective communication and incentive strategies, ultimately facilitating the integration of SMRs into the future distributed energy grid.

Keywords: Locational Marginal Pricing (LMP), Small Modular Reactor (SMR), Distributed Energy Resources, Social Acceptance, Discrete Choice Experiment, Policy Attributes