NRC Proposes AP1000 Update Matching Vogtle Realities
Published Date: 10/14/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission wants to update and renew the AP1000 nuclear reactor design to match the latest improvements used at Vogtle Plant Units 3 and 4. This update keeps the design safe, modern, and ready for future use. Anyone interested has until November 13, 2026, to share their thoughts, and this renewal helps keep nuclear energy reliable without extra costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
AP1000 Design Updated to Revision 20
The NRC proposes to renew the AP1000 design certification and incorporate AP1000 Design Control Document Revision 20 into appendix D of 10 CFR part 52. The agency set a public comment deadline of November 13, 2026, and the direct final rule is scheduled to become effective on December 28, 2026 unless the NRC receives significant adverse comments.
40-Year Design Certification Renewal
The NRC is amending the AP1000 design certification to renew it for 40 years measured from the effective date of the direct final rule. Because the direct final rule is scheduled to become effective on December 28, 2026, the renewed certification would run for 40 years from that effective date.
Alternative Tier 2* Change Process Adopted
The NRC is amending section VIII.B.6 of appendix D to incorporate the alternative change process previously approved for Vogtle Units 3 and 4, which applies the Tier 2 change process with nine additional criteria to determine when a license amendment is required. The change is intended to eliminate unnecessary licensing actions for applicants referencing either Revision 19 or Revision 20.
Keep Revision 19 as an Option
The NRC will retain the incorporation by reference of AP1000 DCD Revision 19 in appendix D so that several existing combined license holders and future applicants may reference either Revision 19 or Revision 20 in future applications.
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