NRC regulates the maximum power level at which a commercial nuclear power plant may operate. This power level is used, with other data, in many of the licensing analyses that demonstrate the safety of the plant. This power level is included in the license and technical specifications for the plant. NRC controls any change to a license or technical specification, and the licensee may only change these documents after NRC approves the licensee's application for change. The process of increasing the maximum power level at which a commercial nuclear power plant may operate is called a power uprate.
Did you know U.S. nuclear power plants can ask the NRC for permission to increase their power output? These “uprates,” when we’re satisfied they’ll be done safely, can involve changes to a reactor’s instruments, controls and power generation systems. Over the past 20 years, we’ve approved uprates that have given the nation’s electricity grid an additional six gigawatts, the equivalent of six large reactors. We’re aware the U.S. nuclear fleet is interested in requesting more uprates over the coming years that could mean another two gigawatts for the grid. We’re already looking at our past reviews to see how we can process these requests as efficiently as possible while maintaining safety.
For more information on Power Uprates, see:
Page Last Reviewed/Updated Wednesday, November 13, 2024