The effort to reduce carbon emissions relies heavily on well-known clean energy sources, but fighting global warming will need more than just solar panels and wind turbines.

A new study published this year by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine identifies a surprising source of energy to help the United States transform the energy sector and meet its climate change goals. “Laying the Foundation for New and Advanced Nuclear Reactors in the United States” asserts that a next generation of smaller nuclear power plants could play an important role in the transition.

Whether or not nuclear power can be considered a true renewable source of energy has been and continues to be a source of debate. However, the study asserts that the technology represents a valuable resource as the country migrates to clean fuels.

The study notes that the industry is changing, and its designs and technology have evolved. Advanced nuclear reactors represent a new class of energy production that is smarter and more efficient than the light water reactors used currently. They differ significantly in terms of size, fuel, coolant, temperature and other factors, making them more versatile, flexible, safer and cost-effective.

This will enable them to help address the dynamic needs of a changing energy infrastructure becoming more reliant on renewable sources. For example, the unique design of advanced reactors allows them to quickly adjust to the fluctuating demands of the grid, making them a reliable backup to intermittent wind and solar power. Many advanced reactors are also much smaller to better serve smaller companies, utilities and remote, isolated locations.

Noting that nuclear power already provides a significant portion of the world’s low-carbon electricity, the study finds that advanced nuclear technologies also can cost less to build and can be better integrated with the modern grid. These unique qualities position them as an important resource in the effort to decarbonize the energy sector.

Despite their evolving systems, advanced reactors still need an assist. The study suggests the federal government can play an important role in developing this important industry. Research and development, regulatory support and demonstration projects represent a few of the many ways in which the Department of Energy, the Office of Nuclear Energy and Congress can help.