Power uprate

The process of increasing the maximum power level at which a commercial nuclear power plant may operate. This power level, regulated by the NRC, is included in the plant's operating license and technical specifications. A licensee may only change its maximum power output after the NRC approves an uprate application. The NRC analyses must demonstrate that the plant could continue to operate safely with its proposed new configuration. When all requisite conditions are fulfilled, the NRC may grant the power uprate by amending the plant's operating license and technical specifications. For additional detail, see Power Uprates.