As the advanced reactor landscape continues to evolve, interest in the licensing and deployment of microreactors is increasing. The staff has engaged with microreactor developers and other external entities to better understand their technologies and planned deployment models. Information on pre-application engagement with microreactor developers and potential applicants can be found here: Pre-Application Activities for Advanced Reactors.
The NRC stands ready to license microreactors today under 10 CFR Part 50, 10 CFR Part 52, and 10 CFR Part 53. Recently, the NRC made several policy decisions that streamline the licensing of microreactors, acknowledging their reduced risk profiles and enhanced safety features. The NRC is also pursuing a rulemaking, proposed Part 57, “Licensing Requirements for Microreactors and Other Reactors with Comparable Risk Profiles,” to allow for a flexible regulatory framework of these nuclear technologies, which offer a high level of safety and security, by accommodating the diverse manufacturing, construction, and operational models that differ from traditional large light water reactors and large advanced reactors.
Further information on the staff’s activities can be found through the links below.
