Combined License Applications for New Reactors

By issuing a combined license (COL), the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) authorizes the licensee to construct and (with specified conditions) operate a nuclear power plant at a specific site, in accordance with established laws and regulations. A COL is valid for 40 years from the date of the Commission finding, under Title 10, Section 52.103 (g), of the Code of Federal Regulations [10 CFR 52.103(g)], that the acceptance criteria in the combined license are met. A COL can be renewed for an additional 20 years. The NRC expects to receive applications for new LWR facilities in a variety of projected locations throughout the United States.

• Locations of New Nuclear Power Reactor Applications

In a COL application, the NRC staff reviews the applicant's qualifications, design safety, environmental impacts, operational programs, site safety, and verification of construction with ITAAC. The staff conducts its review in accordance with the Atomic Energy Act, NRC regulations, and the National Environmental Policy Act. All stakeholders (including the public) are given notice as to how and when they may participate in the regulatory process, which may include participating in public meetings and opportunities to request a hearing on the issuance of a COL.

COL Applications Received

The links in the table below provide information on the COL applications that the NRC has received to date. The activities associated with reviewing these applications are reflected in the individual links for docketed COL applications.

* This page only tracks an application until a license is issued. Once a license is issued, the license holder is tracked at Combined License Holders for New Reactors.