U.S. Small Modular Reactor Licensing Progress and Regulatory Pathways
The U.S. licensing process for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) is advancing under the oversight of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), with support from the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Department of War (DoW). SMRs can pursue licensing through three regulatory pathways, including the upcoming 10 CFR Part 53 framework expected by late 2025. The DOE is also promoting SMR development through programs that allow testing and provide funding for safety analyses.
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The licensing process for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in the U.S. is evolving, with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) as the primary authority for commercial licenses, supported by the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Department of War (DoW). SMRs must use one of three pathways under Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations: 10 CFR Part 50 (Two-Step Process), 10 CFR Part 52 (Combined License), or the upcoming 10 CFR Part 53 (Risk-Informed Framework) expected in late 2025/early 2026.
The DOE facilitates SMR development through initiatives like the Reactor Pilot Program, which allows companies to test reactors without NRC licenses, and the Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program, providing funding for Safety Analysis Reports. The DoW supports
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