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Spotlight
Advanced Reactors
The NRC refers to non-light water reactor (non-LWR) designs and small modular light water reactors (SMRs) as advanced reactors. These reactors incorporate innovative technologies compared to existing operating reactors, such as passive safety features, alternative fuel or coolant types, or smaller reactor sizes. While non-LWRs use distinct technologies and materials, SMRs are a subset of light water reactors that are designed to be more compact, scalable, and potentially safer, with many sharing features like passive safety systems and advanced engineering designs.
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Page Last Reviewed/Updated Wednesday, September 09, 2026
Page Last Reviewed/Updated Wednesday, September 09, 2026