The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is encouraging existing or
potential applicants for new reactor-related activities to share planning information through
fiscal year 2028.
NRC staff published the Regulatory Issue Summary so the agency can best understand industry
interest in order to most effectively set budgets for licensing reviews and inspection support needed to
safely enable new nuclear technologies. The RIS reminds potential applicants that the earliest possible
engagement with the NRC, including responding to the document, helps produce the most efficient
reviews.
The RIS asks reactor developers, existing license holders and existing or potential licensing
applicants to voluntarily outline the types, quantity and timelines of expected requests for license
amendments, preapplication interactions or new licensing applications. Additional topics include
potential reactor technologies and fuels, collaboration with the Department of Energy or academic
institutions, and projected construction schedules.
The NRC is also reminding advanced reactor applicants and pre-applicants that they may qualify
for reduced licensing fees under provisions of the ADVANCE Act, passed in 2024. Advanced nuclear
pre-applicants are encouraged to submit a licensing project plan (or regulatory engagement plan) and
periodically submit updates with planned activities to qualify for the reduced licensing fees.
Additional information for companies considering applying for NRC licensing products is
available on the agency website.
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.
Source: NRC