Federal Register #2026-08550

NRC Proposed Rule for Rapid Licensing and Deployment of Microreactors

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is proposing a new regulatory framework to accelerate the licensing and deployment of microreactors and similar low-risk reactors. - Government Buyer: - U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) - OEMs and Vendors: - NRC is the only entity mentioned; no commercial OEMs or vendors are specified - Products/Services Requested: - No specific products, part numbers, or purchase quantities are requested - The rule covers a broad range of reactor designs, including: - Microreactors and reactors with comparable risk profiles - Advanced fuel types (e.g., TRISO particles, metallic fuels, liquid fuels) - Various coolant types (water, liquid metals, inert gases, molten salts) - Power levels up to 1,000 MWt - Unique or Notable Requirements: - Multiple licensing pathways, including general licenses and standardized applications - Provisions for remote monitoring and autonomous operation - Reduced operator staffing requirements - Flexible operational programs to support rapid, high-volume deployment and standardization across multiple sites or large areas - Emphasis on risk-informed, performance-based regulation - No specific procurement of goods or services is included; this is a regulatory proposal for public comment

Description

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) proposes amendments to its regulations to establish a risk-informed, performance-based regulatory framework for rapid licensing and deployment of microreactors and other reactors with comparable risk profiles. The proposed rule includes multiple licensing pathways, aims to reduce regulatory burdens, and ensures safety and security requirements are aligned with potential hazards. It provides flexible licensing pathways, supports high-volume deployment, and includes provisions for remote monitoring and autonomous operation. Comments must be submitted electronically by June 15, 2026.

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