NRC Outlines Resource Plan for Reviewing New Nuclear Reactors Through 2028
Published Date: 3/16/2026
Notice
Summary
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission is setting up a clear plan for how it will review new nuclear reactor licenses and oversee construction from 2026 to 2028. This affects companies building or planning light water and non-light water reactors, helping everyone know when reviews will happen and encouraging early talks with the NRC. The plan also helps the NRC manage its budget and resources efficiently during these years.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Set review schedule for FY2026–2028
The NRC issued RIS 2026-02 to describe its process for scheduling reviews of new licensing applications and construction oversight for fiscal years 2026 through 2028. You (companies building or planning light water and non-light water reactors) will be told when the NRC plans to conduct its reviews during FY2026–FY2028.
Encourages early NRC preapplication talks
The RIS explicitly encourages preapplication engagement with the NRC for projects involving large light water reactors, light-water cooled small modular reactors, non-light water reactors, and related facilities. If you are planning or building one of these reactors, the NRC is urging you to begin early discussions with the agency.
Helps NRC plan FY2026–2028 budget/resources
The RIS is intended to assist the NRC in determining resource and budget needs for fiscal years 2026 through 2028 for future construction-related activities, licensing, and rulemaking for LWRs, SMRs, and non-LWRs. The agency will use this process to allocate staff and other resources across FY2026–FY2028.
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