Federal Register #2026-21801

NRC Rule Allows Reference to Prior DOE or Department of War Reactor Design Authorizations

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission issued a final rule on using prior reactor design authorizations in commercial licensing.

Description

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is amending its regulations to allow applicants for commercial reactor facility licenses to reference prior U.S. Department of Energy or Department of War authorizations of demonstration reactor designs. The rule establishes an additional means for applicants to demonstrate reactor design safety functions and is intended to improve licensing review efficiency. Applicants must explain how the prior authorization meets NRC requirements and address any relevant differences or gaps. The rule does not change applicable safety standards or remove the NRC's independent review responsibilities.

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