Licensing Process Development for SMRs — European Perspective

Abstract

Recently, Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) have attracted increased public discussion. While large nuclear power plant new build projects are facing challenges, the focus of attention is turning to small modular reactors. This paper is based on the PhD Dissertation “Licensing Model Development for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) - Focusing on Finnsh Regulatory Framework”, approved in 2013. The result of the study is a recommendation for a new, optimized licensing process for SMRs. The most important SMR-specific feature, in terms of licensing, is the modularity of the design. Here the modularity indicates multi-module SMR designs, which creates new challenges in the licensing process. The application of the new licensing process is developed using Systems Engineering, Requirements Management, and Project Management practices and tools.