NRC Unveils Plans to Streamline Reactor Reviews with DOE/DOW Data
Ellen Thomas
|
No: 26-040 April 6, 2026 EO14300
Rulemaking ROCKVILLE, Md.—The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has issued a proposed rule to explicitly establish a pathway for leveraging design information from proven Departments of Energy or War reactor demonstrations in NRC reviews of commercial nuclear power plant applications. This approach is part of the agency’s implementation of Executive Order 14300, “Ordering the Reform of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.” “Once DOE or DOW thoroughly tests a reactor design and shows it operates safely, we’re going to build on that work, not repeat it,” said Jeremy Bowen, director of the NRC’s newly formed Office of Advanced Reactors. “We’re proposing changes to our regulations to make it clearer how that can be done.” The proposed rule will enhance NRC licensing regulations, establishing a clear pathway for new reactor applicants to justify how DOE- or DOW-authorized designs meet NRC safety requirements. Applicants would need to address any changes from the DOE- or DOW-authorized design to a commercial reactor version licensed by the NRC. The NRC’s use of information from DOE or DOW technical reviews would depend on the extent to which an applicant demonstrates that the information addresses the requirements of an NRC license application. The NRC plans to issue guidance to complement these regulatory changes later and in alignment with the rulemaking process. The Federal Register notice includes information on commenting; comments may be submitted until May 4 via regulations.gov under Docket ID NRC-2025-1503. The NRC will conduct a public meeting on April 14 to provide an overview of the proposed rule and supporting documents.
The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission was created as an expert, technical agency to protect public health, safety, and security, and regulate the civilian use of nuclear materials, including enabling the deployment of nuclear power for the benefit of society. Among other responsibilities, the agency issues licenses, conducts inspections, initiates and enforces regulations, and plans for incident response. The NRC is collaborating with interagency partners to implement reforms outlined in new Executive Orders and the ADVANCE Act to streamline agency activities and enhance efficiency.
|
