ONR Releases Updated Nuclear Licensing Guidance Reflecting New Policies
The Office for Nuclear Regulation (ONR) has published the seventh edition of Licensing Nuclear Installations, incorporating significant updates reflecting changes in the nuclear regulatory landscape since 2021. This update is crucial in guiding the licensing process for new and advanced reactors, aligning with National Policy Statement EN-7 and recommendations from the Nuclear Regulatory Taskforce.
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The ONR's seventh edition of Licensing Nuclear Installations serves as a comprehensive update to nuclear licensing guidance, emphasizing processes for licensing new advanced reactor sites and relicensing existing facilities. EN-7, published in November 2025, expands the parameters for developing new reactors, including provisions for small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced modular reactors (AMRs).
The government plans to implement reforms to streamline the regulatory process based on the Nuclear Regulatory Taskforce's recommendations, reducing bureaucracy. The Advanced Nuclear Framework established in February aims to facilitate project management for developers. These updates may significantly enhance the engagement and integration of emerging technologies in the nuclear sector, potentially reshaping the landscape of nuclear energy in the UK.
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