NRC Accepts SMR, LLC’s Limited Work Authorization Application

On February 13, 2026, the staff accepted SMR, LLC’s application for a phased construction permit application, including a limited work authorization (LWA) request.  The LWA application requests NRC approval to conduct certain early construction activities of a dual-unit SMR-300 plant located at the Palisades Energy Center in Covert, Michigan.  The acceptance letter includes milestones to issue the final safety evaluation and final environmental impact statement by March 2027.  A Notice announcing the acceptance, requesting comments, and offering an opportunity to request a hearing and petition for leave to intervene was published in the Federal Register on February 27, 2026 (91 FR 9892).