NRC Renews AP1000 Reactor Design with Vogtle Tweaks
Published Date: 10/14/2026
Rule
Summary
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is renewing the AP1000 nuclear reactor design certification to include the latest updates from building and running Vogtle Plant Units 3 and 4. This means the design now matches real-world improvements, keeping it safe and up-to-date. The new rule kicks in December 28, 2026, unless people send in big objections by November 13, 2026.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
AP1000 Design Updated and Renewed
The NRC renews the AP1000 design certification and incorporates AP1000 Design Control Document (DCD) Revision 20 so the certified design matches changes made during licensing, construction, and operation of Vogtle Electric Generating Plant Units 3 and 4. The renewal is effective December 28, 2026, and the design certification is renewed for 40 years from that effective date; applicants may reference either DCD Revision 19 or Revision 20 in future licensing applications.
Alternative Tier 2* Change Process Adopted
The rule amends section VIII.B.6 of appendix D to incorporate the alternative change process for Tier 2* departures that was previously reviewed and approved for Vogtle Units 3 and 4. The NRC says including this alternative process in the design certification will eliminate the need for unnecessary licensing actions for applicants who reference either DCD Revision 19 or Revision 20.
No Significant Small-Entity Economic Impact
The NRC certifies under the Regulatory Flexibility Act that this direct final rule does not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities because it affects only the licensing and operation of large nuclear power plants and the owners of those plants do not meet the definition of small entities. The rule therefore does not impose new costs on small businesses.
No Significant Environmental Impact Found
The NRC issued an environmental assessment and found no significant impact from renewing and updating the AP1000 design certification; it did not prepare an environmental impact statement. The rule does not authorize siting, construction, or operation of any facility—it only extends the period an applicant can reference the AP1000 design and the renewal duration is 40 years from the rule's effective date.
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